Synonyms/Hypernyms (Ordered by Estimated Frequency) of noun emergency

3 senses of emergency

Sense 1
emergency, exigency, pinch -- (a sudden unforeseen crisis (usually involving danger) that requires immediate action; "he never knew what to do in an emergency")
       => crisis -- (a crucial stage or turning point in the course of something; "after the crisis the patient either dies or gets better")

Sense 2
emergency -- (a state in which martial law applies; "the governor declared a state of emergency")
       => temporary state -- (a state that continues for a limited time)

Sense 3
hand brake, emergency, emergency brake, parking brake -- (a brake operated by hand; usually operates by mechanical linkage)
       => brake -- (a restraint used to slow or stop a vehicle)