Main Entry:

or·deal

Pronunciation:

\ȯr-ˈdē(-ə)l, ˈȯr-ˌ\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English ordal, from Old English ordāl; akin to Old High German urteil judgment, Old English dāl division — more at deal

Date:

before 12th century

1 : a primitive means used to determine guilt or innocence by submitting the accused to dangerous or painful tests believed to be under supernatural control <ordeal by fire> 2 : a severe trial or experience