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Definition of direly

direly

/ˈdaɪ.ɚ.li/
dire · ly
Adjective:dire
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direly Lexical Profile

direly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

To an extreme, critical, or urgent degree; desperately or severely.

Example

"The remote clinic was direly in need of basic medical supplies after the winter storm."

2

In a dreadful, ominous, or foreboding manner.

Example

"The economist warned direly of the consequences that would follow if inflation remained unchecked."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for direly

• Nearby Words

directorship
directory
directrix
direly
direness
dirge
dirham

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 16th century from the adjective 'dire' (derived from the Latin 'dirus', meaning 'fearful, ominous, or ill-omened') combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Direly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/direly
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