emergency

noun, plural e·mer·gen·cies.

1. a sudden, urgent, usually unexpected occurrence or occasion requiring immediate action.
2. a state, especially of need for help or relief, created by some unexpected event: a weather emergency; a financial emergency.

adjective

3. granted, used, or for use in an emergency: an emergency leave; emergency lights.

noun plural -cies

1. 1. an unforeseen or sudden occurrence, esp of a danger demanding immediate remedy or action
   2. (as modifier)an emergency exit
2. 1. a patient requiring urgent treatment
   2. (as modifier)an emergency ward
3. state of emergency a condition, declared by a government, in which martial law applies, usually because of civil unrest or natural disaster
4. NZ a player selected to stand by to replace an injured member of a team; reserve