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.