emergent
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪˈmɜːrdʒənt/
KK: /ɪˈmɜrdʒənt/
adjective
Definition
Something that is coming into view or existence, often unexpectedly or urgently.
Example
The emergent technology has the potential to change the way we live.
Conversation
I heard there are some emergent trends in technology this year.
Oh really? What kind of trends are you talking about?
Things like artificial intelligence and blockchain are becoming really popular and emergent.
That sounds exciting! I can't wait to see how they develop.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
urgent
arising
developing
Antonyms
declining
stagnant
dormant
noun
Definition
A person or thing that is coming into view or existence, often used to describe a tree that grows above the surrounding forest.
Example
The emergent trees in the rainforest tower over the other plants, reaching great heights.
Conversation
Did you know that some trees are classified as emergent trees?
Yeah, I read that they grow taller than the rest of the forest canopy.
Exactly! The emergent ones can reach really impressive heights.
Root Explanation
Emergent is formed from "emergere" (meaning to rise out or up) and the suffix "-ent" (indicating an agent or something that performs an action). The word describes something that is coming into view or becoming apparent, as if it is rising up from a hidden state.
Memory Tip
Think of something 'rising up' ('emergere') to become visible or noticeable — that's what emergent means.
Visually Confused Words
nonemergent
immergent
detergent
vergent
remerge
margent