contingency

 
Pronunciation: /kənˈtɪndʒ(ə)nsi/

noun (plural contingencies)

  • a future event or circumstance which is possible but cannot be predicted with certainty: a detailed contract which attempts to provide for all possible contingencies
  • a provision for a possible event or circumstance: stores were kept as a contingency against a blockade
  • an incidental expense: allow an extra fifteen per cent on the budget for contingencies
  • [mass noun] the absence of certainty in events: the island’s public affairs can occasionally be seen to be invaded by contingency
  • [mass noun] Philosophy the absence of necessity; the fact of being so without having to be so.

Origin:

mid 16th century (in the philosophical sense): from late Latin contingentia (in its medieval Latin sense 'circumstance'), from contingere 'befall' (see contingent)