exigent etymology

Etymology

The word "exigent" has its roots in Latin:

  • ex- (prefix meaning "out of" or "from")
  • agere (verb meaning "to act" or "to drive")

Origin

The term "exigent" entered English in the early 15th century. It is derived from the Late Latin verb exigere (to summon, demand, exact), which in turn comes from the Latin roots mentioned above.

Meaning

The primary meaning of "exigent" is:

  • Requiring immediate attention or action; pressing or urgent.

Examples

  • "The situation was so exigent that we had to evacuate the building immediately."
  • "The doctor determined that the patient had an exigent medical condition that required surgery."
  • "The police officers found themselves in an exigent circumstance when the suspect attempted to flee."

Synonyms

  • Urgent
  • Pressing
  • Critical
  • Imperative
  • Essential
  • Necessary

Antonyms

  • Non-urgent
  • Delayed
  • Elective
  • Deferrable
  • Optional

exigent relate terms

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