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.

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

Schmidt backed Lynagh to thrive in the high-stakes atmosphere of Saturday's showdown, while admitting it will be a baptism of fire for the rookie.

From BBC • Jul. 17, 2025

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

On the other hand, if the nature on which it operates has received the baptism of fire, its effect is that of a tonic.

From The Truth About Tristrem Varick A Novel by Saltus, Edgar