ETYM Latin contingens, -entis, p. pr. of contingere to touch on all sides, to happen; con- + tangere to touch: cf. French contingent. Related to Tangent, Tact.
1. Determined by conditions or circumstances not yet established; SYN. contingent on, dependent on, dependant on, depending on.
2. Possible but not certain to occur.
3. Uncertain because of uncontrollable circumstances.

1. A gathering of persons representative of some larger group.
2. A temporary military unit; SYN. detail.
3. Possible; able to take place; accidental; conditional