Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

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.