Strait

1. A narrow channel of water connecting two larger bodies of water.

   The Strait of Gibraltar

2. A narrow pass, passage or street.
3. A neck of land; an isthmus.
4. (often in the plural) A difficult position.

   to be in dire straits

1. To confine; put to difficulties.
2. To tighten.

1. Narrow; restricted as to space or room; close.
2. Righteous, strict.

   to follow the strait and narrow

3. Tight; close; tight-fitting.
4. Close; intimate; near; familiar.
5. Difficult; distressful.
6. Parsimonious; stingy; mean.

adverb

Strictly; rigorously.