adj. Coming into view, existence, or notice: emergent spring shoots; an emergent political leader. adj. Emerging: emergent nations. adj. Rising above a surrounding medium, especially a fluid.adj. Arising or occurring unexpectedly: money laid aside for emergent contingencies. adj. Demanding prompt action; urgent.adj. Occurring as a consequence; resultant: economic problems emergent from the restriction of credit. n. One that is coming into view or existence: "The giant redwoods . . . outstrip the emergents of the rain forest, which rarely reach two hundred feet” ( Catherine Caulfield).