A serious, unexpected situation that needs quick action, such as an accident, sudden illness, or natural disaster. It often involves danger or risk.
From Medieval Latin 'emergentia' (an unforeseen occurrence), related to 'emergere' (to rise up, appear). The word shifted from simply 'occurrence' to 'urgent situation' in English. The sense of suddenness and seriousness became central.
An 'emergency' is literally something that 'emerges' suddenly and demands attention. The language hints that crises aren’t always new problems—they’re often old ones that have finally surfaced. The word focuses on the moment they break through, not the long buildup underneath.
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