Definition of: strait

(strāt) adjective
1. Of small transverse dimensions; narrow.
2. Archaic Restricted as to space or room; close; tight.
3. Destitute, as of money; needy.
4. Archaic Strict; rigorous.
5. Obs. Difficult; hard–pressed.
—noun
1. A narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water.
2. Any narrow pass or passage.
3. A position of perplexity or distress; necessity: frequently plural.
4. Obs. An isthmus. ♦ Homophone: straight. [<OF estreit <L strictus, pp. of stringere bind tight. Doublet of STRICT.]
—strait′ly adverb
—strait′·ness noun