firestorm

Or fire storm

[fahyuhr-stawrm]

noun

1. an atmospheric phenomenon, caused by a large fire, in which the rising column of air above the fire draws in strong winds often accompanied by rain.

2. a raging fire of great intensity, as one fueled by oil or gas, that spreads rapidly.

firestorm

/ ˈfaɪəˌstɔːm /

noun

1. an uncontrollable blaze sustained by violent winds that are drawn into the column of rising hot air over the burning area: often the result of heavy bombing

Word History and Origins

Origin of firestorm¹

First recorded in 1575–85; fire + storm

Example Sentences

The late-night host’s suspension set off a political firestorm and nationwide debate about free speech.

From Los Angeles Times

Disney on Monday reversed its suspension of the late-night talk show after the host’s comments about the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk set off a political firestorm.

From Los Angeles Times

The firestorms engulfed 59 square miles of Southern California — more than twice the size of Manhattan — transforming entire city blocks in Altadena and Pacific Palisades into corridors of ashes, twisted metal and skeletal trees.

From Los Angeles Times

County burn scars and included a preference for residents displaced by the January firestorm.

From Los Angeles Times

Just as January’s firestorms occurred outside of Southern California’s typical fire season, this harmful algae overgrowth appeared earlier in the year than have previous blooms.

From Los Angeles Times