1. Word of the Week dire adjective

2. Definition: very bad: causing great fear or worry
People in third world countries are
in dire need of clean water.

3. Synonyms: critical desperate extreme ominous
After the hurricane destroyed most of
Haiti, there was a dire need for
housing and medical care.

4. Scientists continue to make dire warnings about climate change.
Antonyms:
unimportant
mild
good
calm
Scientists continue to make dire warnings about climate change.

5. Related Forms: direr direst direly direness
I am tremendously inspired by many women around the world who work under dire circumstances to make a difference for their families.
Joyce Banda