Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

fire-and-brimstone

American  
[fahyuhr-uhn-brim-stohn] / ˈfaɪər ənˈbrɪmˌstoʊn /

adjective

  1. threatening punishment in the hereafter.

    a fire-and-brimstone sermon.


fire-and-brimstone British  

adjective

  1. (of a sermon, preacher, etc) zealous, esp in threatening eternal damnation

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of fire-and-brimstone

First recorded in 1795–1805

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.

From that point on, Dr Lee says, Lee dialled back on the controversial, fire-and-brimstone approach for which he had become notorious – opting instead to play it safe and keep a low profile.

From BBC • May 27, 2025

In a fire-and-brimstone kicking off of Friday’s parade of VIPs, U.N.

From Washington Times • Dec. 1, 2023

In 1972’s “The Sinner” episode, a young pastor played by the late John Ritter arrived preaching fire-and-brimstone Bible verses.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 13, 2022

Mr. López Obrador came to power in 2018, in a fire-and-brimstone campaign focused on the deep-seated corruption of past governments.

From New York Times • Mar. 25, 2022

For all the fire-and-brimstone buildup, the avenue that led down to Tijuana was a little disappointing.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand