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.

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

Reddin's first major job was to appoint Tandy and it has been a baptism of fire in the first campaign for the new head coach.

From BBC • Nov. 30, 2025

The SNP leader has faced a baptism of fire since then, with his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon being arrested and several of the party's key policies having to be ditched in the face of controversy.

From BBC • Jul. 5, 2023

Like many others I have passed through the flames, and received as it were my first "baptism of fire."

From The Story of the Great Fire in St. John, N.B., June 20th, 1877 by Stewart, George