Emergency \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.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)