Dictionary

in flames en · ADP

Meanings

1. In a dramatically wrecked state.
   • is/are in flames [hopes, goals, dreams, projects, etc]
   • After the third major setback in as many days, their hopes were in flames.
2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see in, flames: for example, on fire, aflame.
   • is/are in flames [aircraft, ships, buildings]
   • He was shocked to find that the whole building was in flames; how could the fire have spread so quickly?

Relateds

go up in flames · go down in flames · go up in smoke