strait

obsolete

1. :  in a close or tight manner

1. 1a archaic :  a narrow space or passageb :  a comparatively narrow passageway connecting two large bodies of water —often used in plural but singular in constructionc :  isthmus

2. 2 :  a situation of perplexity or distress —often used in plural in dire straits

1. 1 :  a narrow channel connecting two bodies of water

2. 2 :  a situation of difficulty or distress —often used in pl. The lost hikers were in dire straits.