The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Emergency \E*mer"gen*cy\, n.; pl. Emergencies. [See
   Emergence.]
   1. Sudden or unexpected appearance; an unforeseen occurrence;
      a sudden occasion.
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            Most our rarities have been found out by casual
            emergency.                            --Glanvill.
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   2. An unforeseen occurrence or combination of circumstances
      which calls for immediate action or remedy; pressing
      necessity; exigency.
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            To whom she might her doubts propose,
            On all emergencies that rose.         --Swift.
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            A safe counselor in most difficult emergencies.
                                                  --Brougham.

   Syn: Crisis; conjuncture; exigency; pinch; strait; necessity.
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