adj. & n.
--adj.
1. (usu. foll. by on, upon) conditional, dependent (on an uncertain event or circumstance).
2 associated.
3 (usu. foll. by to) incidental.
4 a that may or may not occur. b fortuitous; occurring by chance.
5 true only under existing or specified conditions.
--n. a body (esp. of troops, ships, etc.) forming part of a larger group.
Derivatives:
contingently adv.
Etymology: L contingere (as COM-, tangere touch)