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emergent systems JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/ɛˈmɜːrdʒənt ˈsɪstəmz/ · em.er.gent.sys.tems
noun
  1. A complex system that exhibits properties that cannot be predicted from its individual components. The emergent systems of a flock of birds, where individual birds follow simple rules to create complex patterns.
noun
  1. A system that arises from the interactions of its components, often exhibiting novel and unpredictable behavior. The emergent systems of a social network, where individual interactions create complex patterns of behavior.
noun
  1. A system that exhibits emergent properties, such as self-organization and adaptability. The emergent systems of a living organism, where individual cells interact to create complex systems.
Did you know? The concept of emergent systems was first introduced by philosopher and biologist Conrad Hal Waddington in the 1960s, and has since been widely applied in fields such as biology, sociology, and computer science.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 15, 2026