E‐mer″gen‐cy (?), n.; pl.Emergencies (#). [See Emergence.] 1. Sudden or unexpected appearance; an unforeseen occurrence; a sudden occasion.
Most our rarities have been found out by casual emergency. Glanvill.
2. An unforeseen occurrence or combination of circumstances which calls for immediate action or remedy; pressing necessity; exigency.
To whom she might her doubts propose,
On all emergencies that rose. Swift.
A safe counselor in most difficult emergencies. Brougham.
Syn. — Crisis; conjuncture; exigency; pinch; strait; necessity.