direr; direst
1
: very bad : causing great fear or worry
Even the smallest mistake could have dire [=terrible, dreadful] consequences.
a dire emergency
The circumstances are now more dire than ever.
With its best player out of the game, the team found itself in dire straits. [=in a very bad or difficult situation]
The company now finds itself in dire financial straits. [=the company is having bad financial problems]
2
: warning of disaster : showing a very bad future
Some analysts are issuing dire economic forecasts.
a dire prediction/warning
3
a
: requiring immediate action : very urgent
The government is in dire [=desperate] need of reform.
dire necessity
b
: very serious or extreme
They live in dire poverty.
Cite this Entry
“Dire.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/dire. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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