emergent

Word parts

emerge + -ent

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ɪˈmɜːrd͡ʒənt/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /ɪˈmɝd͡ʒənt/

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

Adjective

Positive emergent

Comparative none

Superlative none

1. An emergent organism, organization, idea, etc. is one that is just starting to exist or become noticeable.
   • Synonyms: developing and arising
   • Antonyms: established and declining

   The company is investing in emergent technologies.

2. An emergent leader, figure, problem, etc. is one that is coming into view or being recognized for the first time.

   The emergent leader gained popularity quickly.

3. An emergent property is a characteristic that arises from the interaction of simpler elements but is not present in the individual parts.

   Consciousness is often considered an emergent property of the brain's complex network of neurons.

Related words

• emerge
• emergence