Dire "Straits"

     
        I first noted "strait" and saw that it wasn't "straight."  Why?  "Strait" derives from Latin strictus, "strict," and thence from stringere, "to draw tight."

       "Straightjacket" is a variant, but "straight" derives from Middle English strecchen, "to stretch."

       Dennis's eyebrows and folded arms and Mom's look and little flush lines on her cheeks show their reactions.