hell

Universal Words noun 1 [sing.] (usually Hell) (used without a or the) in some religions, the place believed to be the home of devils and where bad people go after death 2 [U,sing.] a very unpleasant experience or situation in which people suffer very much: The last three months have been hell. * He went through hell during the trial. * Her parents made her life hell. * Being totally alone is my idea of hell on earth. 3 a swear word that some people use when they are annoyed or surprised or to emphasize sth. Its use is offensive to some people: Oh hell, I've burned the pan. * What the hell do you think you are doing? * Go to hell! * I can't really afford it, but, what the hell (= it doesn't matter), I'll get it anyway. * He's as guilty as hell. * (AmE) 'Do you understand?' 'Hell, no. I don't.' IDIOMS all hell broke loose (informal) suddenly there was a lot of noise, arguing, fighting or confusion: There was a loud bang and then all hell broke loose. beat / kick (the) hell out of sb/sth