n, pl  -cies  :  an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action: as  a  :  a sudden bodily alteration (as a ruptured appendix or surgical shock) such as is likely to require immediate medical attention  b  :  a usu. distressing event or condition that can often be anticipated or prepared for but seldom exactly foreseen .
 
 
 
Similar sounding terms:  emer·gence 
 
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