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Meaning of dire
The primary meaning of the word "dire" is something that is extremely bad, serious, or alarming.
Etymology of dire
The word "dire" comes from the Old French word "dire", which is derived from the Latin word "dirus", meaning fearful or terrible
Historically, the word has been used to describe situations or events that are alarming, threatening, or of great concern
Synonyms
alarming
appalling
awful
calamitous
catastrophic
critical
desperate
disastrous
dreadful
fearful
frightening
ghastly
grim
horrible
horrific
menacing
ominous
perilous
ominous
shocking
terrible
threatening
unpleasant
upsetting
woeful
wretched
distressing
forbidding
formidable
frightening
intense
severe
serious
solemn
somber
unhappy
unpleasant
unsatisfactory
Definitions
- Causing or involving great fear or anxiety
- * Extremely bad or serious
- * Predicting or threatening disaster or great harm
Usage Examples
- The news of the natural disaster was dire, with thousands of people affected
- * The doctor's diagnosis was dire, and the patient was given only a short time to live
- * The situation in the country is dire, with widespread poverty and unrest
Antonyms
acceptable
agreeable
appealing
auspicious
benign
beneficial
bright
cheerful
favorable
fortunate
good
happy
heartening
hopeful
inspiring
mild
optimistic
pleasant
promising
reassuring
satisfactory
welcome