The word dire is often found in conjunction with straits In dire straits is used of a situation that is very bad or difficult. By offering services free of charge to people in dire need, the organization contributes to the widespread circulation of religious messages. Causing or involving great fear or suffering See examples of dire used in a sentence. Dire refers to situations or events that cause great fear and worry
A dire calamity causes much suffering. If you describe something as dire, you are emphasizing that it is of very low quality. Indicating trouble, disaster, or the like Wordreference random house unabridged dictionary of american english © 2025 dire (dīə r), adj., dir•er, dir•est Indicating trouble, disaster, misfortune, or the like Dire predictions about the stock market
