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Webster 1913 Edition


Emergency

E-mer′gen-cy

,
Noun.
;
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.
Syn. – Crisis; conjuncture; exigency; pinch; strait; necessity.

Definition 2024


emergency

emergency

English

Noun

emergency (plural emergencies)

  1. A situation which poses an immediate risk and which requires urgent attention.
    Cardiac arrest is an emergency and if you find someone in cardiac arrest you should call 999 immediately.
  2. (US, Canada, often attributive) The department of a hospital that treats emergencies.
  3. An individual brought in at short notice to replace a member of staff, a player in a sporting team, etc.
  4. (archaic) The quality of being emergent; sudden or unexpected appearance; an unforeseen occurrence.
  5. (US, telecommunications) A condition where life or property is in jeopardy and the prompt summoning of aid is essential.

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