# firestorm

/ˈfaɪɹˌstɔɹm/ (US) · /fˈaɪəstɔːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/firestorm
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a very large and powerful fire that spreads quickly and is difficult to control. It can also describe a situation where a lot of people are talking or arguing about something very strongly.

For teachers: a large, intense, and rapidly spreading fire that is difficult to extinguish. In a figurative sense, it refers to a period of intense public debate or controversy.

## Examples

- The forest was destroyed by a massive firestorm.
- The politician's controversial comments sparked a firestorm of criticism on social media.
- The rapid spread of the firestorm was exacerbated by the dry conditions and the lack of immediate intervention from the local emergency services.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.