Definition of "emergency" in English

noun

1. (sometimes attributive) A situation which poses an immediate risk and which requires urgent attention.

   • Cardiac arrest is an emergency requiring medical attention.

2. The department of a hospital that treats emergencies.

3. A person brought in at short notice to replace a member of staff, a player in a sporting team, etc.

   • November 2 2014, Daniel Taylor, "Sergio Agüero strike wins derby for Manchester City against 10-man United," guardian.co.uk Van Gaal responded by replacing Adnan Januzaj with Carrick and, in fairness, the emergency centre-half did exceedingly well given that he has not played since May.

4. (archaic) The quality of being emergent; sudden or unexpected appearance; an unforeseen occurrence.

5. (euphemistic) A critical urge to urinate or defecate.