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

It has been a baptism of fire for Scholz, who is known for his cautious public style.

From Washington Post • Jan. 26, 2022

They received their baptism of fire mingled with showers of mud, their clothes soaked to the skin.

From The Story of the Great War, Volume VII (of VIII) American Food and Ships; Palestine; Italy invaded; Great German Offensive; Americans in Picardy; Americans on the Marne; Foch's Counteroffensive. by Various