dire

adjective5

1. •
   Expressing bad consequences: dreadful; dismal.

   • dire consequences
   • to be in dire straits
2. •
   Requiring action to prevent bad consequences: urgent, pressing.
3. •
   (UK, slang) Bad in quality, awful, terrible.

   • His dire blunder allowed her to checkmate him with her next move.
4. •
   Warning of bad consequences: ill-boding; portentous.

   • dire omens
5. •
   Ferocious and of intimidating appearance, like a dire wolf.