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

Revelations of the incident have set off a firestorm, both in Washington and among the members of the California Federation of Republican Women.

From Los Angeles Times

At the center of one biggest political scandals, Clinton opened up about his "frustration" about being questioned about his affair and the emotional state during the firestorm that followed.

From Salon

Flame bars created the dancing firestorm behind the characters, augmented by practical visual effects from the actual burning of a replica set.

From Los Angeles Times

The comment led to a firestorm of criticism, not entirely unexpected as the mosque-temple dispute has been one of the most contentious and religiously polarising issues in modern India.

From BBC

Still, if he targets his critics, his term will be dominated by legal firestorms — potentially getting in the way of the rest of his agenda.

From Los Angeles Times