strait
n. countablen. a narrow passage of water that connects two larger seas or oceans. It is like a natural bridge made of water between two big areas of land.
n. a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water. Frequently used in the plural form ('straits') to refer to a single geographical feature or, metaphorically, to a situation of extreme difficulty.
The ship sailed through the narrow strait at dawn.
The Strait of Gibraltar connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea and separates Europe from Africa.
Control over the strategic strait has historically dictated the economic prosperity of the surrounding nations, as it serves as the primary artery for maritime trade between the two continents.
Often used in the plural ('straits') when referring to geographical names or a difficult situation ('in dire straits').