straits

/streɪts/
noun
  1. A narrow passage of water connecting two large bodies of water.
    • Many fishing villages are located along the straits.
    • The ship sailed through the straits of Gibraltar.
    • The straits are known for their strong currents and dangerous rocks.
  2. A difficult or challenging situation (usually plural: 'straits').
    • He found himself in desperate straits when his business failed.
    • The company's financial straits forced it to lay off workers.
    • The family was in dire straits after losing their home in the fire.
What does "straits" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean