Definitions

baptism of fire

NOUN

trying experience

Synonyms

WEAK

hazing initiation martyrdom ordeal rite of passage rude introduction test of courage trial by fire

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It was a baptism of fire in a 5-0 defeat, but the player Everton fans would come to love was on show again a few days later.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Balfe: It was a bit of a baptism of fire.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Michael Carrick looked to have been handed a baptism of fire with Manchester City and Arsenal dished up in the first two games of his reign.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

Following the shock sacking of Brighton manager Melissa Phillips earlier this month, interim boss Mikey Harris has endured a baptism of fire at the Seagulls helm.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2024

What a baptism of fire it was for those inexperienced Irish lads!

From The Irish at the Front by MacDonagh, Michael