emergence
UK: ɪˈmɜːdʒəns | US: ɪˈmɜːrdʒəns
n. the process of coming into view or becoming exposed after being concealed
n. the rise of a phenomenon, idea, or entity into prominence
n. (biology) the appearance of new properties or species in the course of evolution
The word "emergence" traces back to Latin emergere (e- "out" + mergere "to dip, sink"), originally describing something rising out of a liquid. Over time, it broadened to signify any process of coming into visibility or prominence. The suffix "-ence" (from Latin -entia) forms abstract nouns indicating a state or action. The morpheme "merge" retains its core idea of immersion or emergence, while "e-" emphasizes outward motion. This logical progression—from literal rising (e.g., water) to metaphorical manifestation (e.g., ideas)—reflects the word's adaptability.
The emergence of sunlight after the storm lifted everyone's spirits.
Scientists study the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Her artistic talent showed early emergence in childhood.
The documentary explores the emergence of hip-hop culture in the 1970s.
Political analysts debated the emergence of new leadership trends.