emerge

verb

i-ˈmərj How to pronounce emerge (audio)
emerged; emerging
Synonyms of emerge

intransitive verb

1
: to become manifest : become known
new problems emerged
2
: to rise from or as if from an enveloping fluid : come out into view
a diver emerging from the water
3
: to rise from an obscure or inferior position or condition
someone must emerge as a leader
4
: to come into being through evolution

Synonyms of emerge

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Examples of emerge in a Sentence

The facts emerged after a lengthy investigation. Several possible candidates have emerged. She has emerged as a leading contender in the field. His war record has emerged as a key issue in the election. when land first emerged from the sea The cat emerged from its hiding place behind the couch. animals emerging from a long period of inactivity
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Campbell emerged as a core special teamer as camp progressed. — Dan Duggan, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026 Yandel is recognized for his support of community and educational initiatives, mental health awareness and emerging Latino talent. — Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 31 Aug. 2026 Video shared online by on-site crews shows the animals finally emerging from the tank one by one. — Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 2026 The cryptocurrency market appears to be emerging from its bear market cycle, offering a compelling long-term entry point for investors. — Katie Stockton, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for emerge

Word History

Etymology

Latin emergere, from e- + mergere to plunge — more at merge

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of emerge was in 1640

Phrases Containing emerge

Rhymes for emerge

See All Rhymes for emerge

Browse Nearby Words

emeraude
emerge
emergence
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Emerge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emerge. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

emerge

verb
i-ˈmərj How to pronounce emerge (audio)
emerged; emerging
1
: to become known or apparent
the facts emerged
2
: to rise from or as if from a fluid : come out into view
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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