dire
|dire|
B2
🇺🇸
/daɪr/
🇬🇧
/daɪə/
extreme seriousness
Etymology
Etymology Information
'dire' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'dirus,' where 'dirus' meant 'fearful' or 'ominous.'
Historical Evolution
'dirus' transformed into the Old French word 'dire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'dire' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'fearful or ominous,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'extremely serious or urgent.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
extremely serious or urgent.
The country is in dire need of food aid.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 2
causing or involving great fear or suffering; dreadful; terrible.
The dire consequences of the war were felt for decades.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40