Emergency

Definition

Emergency is a noun that refers to a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action. It describes circumstances that demand urgent attention to prevent further harm or address critical needs.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmɜrdʒənsi/
• Respelling: ih-MUR-juhn-see

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈmɜːdʒənsi/
• Respelling: ih-MUR-juhn-see

Etymology

The word "emergency" originates from the Latin "emergentia," meaning "rising up" or "occurrence," from "emergere," meaning "to arise" or "to bring forth." The term entered Middle English, initially referring to something that surfaces unexpectedly and then evolving to mean urgent situations requiring immediate action.

Derivatives

• Emergent (adjective)
• Emergency room (noun)
• Emergency brake (noun)
• Emergency exit (noun)
• Emergence (noun)

Synonyms

• Crisis
• Urgency
• Predicament

Antonyms

• Calm
• Stability
• Normalcy

Usage

The term "emergency" is frequently used to refer to critical situations requiring rapid response, as in "The hospital is equipped to handle any emergency." It is also used to describe facilities or tools intended for urgent needs, such as "emergency exits" or "emergency services."

Related Terms

• Rescue: The act of saving from danger or distress.
• Disaster: A sudden event causing serious damage or harm.
• First aid: The immediate assistance given in response to an emergency.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A sudden, serious situation requiring immediate action: Describes an unexpected occurrence that poses a threat and demands quick response.
  • Example: "They had to evacuate due to a medical emergency."
• A state of preparedness for urgent circumstances: Refers to a situation in which immediate action is needed, often associated with pre-established procedures.
  • Example: "The team was trained to respond in case of an emergency."