1. a sudden unforeseen crisis (usually involving danger) that requires immediate action (Freq. 10) - he never knew what to do in an emergency • Syn: exigency, pinch • Derivationally related forms: exigent (for: exigency), emergent • Hypernyms: crisis 2. a state in which martial law applies (Freq. 1) - the governor declared a state of emergency • Hypernyms: temporary state 3. a brake operated by hand; usually operates by mechanical linkage • Syn: hand brake, emergency brake, parking brake • Hypernyms: brake • Part Holonyms: motor vehicle, automotive vehicle
