Definition

The most serious or urgent situation or condition.

Example

The direst consequences of climate change could affect millions of people.

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm that's coming this weekend?

Yeah, I heard it's supposed to be one of the direst we've seen in years.

I hope it doesn't cause too much damage.

Same here, we should stock up just in case!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Direst → It is formed from "dire" (from Old French *dire*, meaning to say or tell) and the superlative suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "direst" means the most serious or urgent, as if it is something that must be said or told urgently.

Memory Tip

Think of something that needs to be 'said' or 'told' urgently ('dire') — and when it's the 'most' urgent, that's what 'direst' means.

Visually Confused Words