Definition

A term often used to refer to sulfur, especially in a historical or literary context, and sometimes associated with fire and brimstone imagery in religious or passionate speech.

Example

The old tales spoke of brimstone and fire as symbols of punishment.

Conversation

Have you ever heard that old saying about brimstone and fire?

Yeah, it always makes me think of some dramatic story.

It's interesting how brimstone is used in so many contexts, right?

Definitely! It adds a powerful image to whatever you're talking about.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brimstone originates from Old English 'brynstān', where 'bryn' means burning and 'stān' means stone. The word refers to a stone that burns, historically associated with sulfur, which was often used in fire and brimstone imagery.

Memory Tip

Think of 'burning stone' — 'bryn' relates to burning and 'stān' means stone, helping you remember that brimstone refers to something that burns, like sulfur.

Visually Confused Words