Entry Word: dire

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 being or showing a sign of evil or calamity to come <a dire forecast of a plunge in stock prices> — see ominous
2 causing fear <a series of dire tremors that hinted at a huge volcanic eruption> — see fearful
3 needing immediate attention <a dire need for food and medicine in the famine-stricken country> — see acute 2