exigent

/ˈɛksɪdʒɪnt/

/ˈɛksɪdʒɪnt/

When you describe something as exigent, you are saying it requires attention: it can't be ignored.

Exigent, which means "demanding attention," comes from the Latin for "driving out." If there's a runaway train driving straight at you, that's an exigent situation — not a good time to stop and write a poem. When circumstances become exigent, it's time to act. When exigent questions arise, an answer is necessary. You can also use exigent for a person who demands attention, usually by complaining. If you've ever worked as a waiter, you've surely dealt with an exigent customer.

Definitions of exigent

1. adjective

   demanding attention
   “"regarded literary questions as exigent and momentous"- H.L.Mencken”

   synonyms: clamant, crying, insistent, instant

   imperative

   requiring attention or action
2. adjective

   requiring precise accuracy
   “became more exigent over his pronunciation”

   synonyms: exacting

   demanding

   requiring more than usually expected or thought due; especially great patience and effort and skill