ordeal

noun

or·​deal ȯr-ˈdē(-ə)l 

ˈȯr-ˌdē(-ə)l

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

ordeal by water

2

: a severe trial or experience

Being trapped in an elevator was a harrowing ordeal for the shoppers.

Synonyms of ordeal

• gauntlet
• trial
• fire
• cross

Examples of ordeal in a Sentence

the hikers were finally rescued after a three-day ordeal in the wilderness

Recent Examples on the Web

But as the AskHistorians ordeal illustrates, more enforcement doesn’t necessarily mean better enforcement. — Scharon Harding, ArsTechnica, 6 Aug. 2026

The ordeal was so dire that Papa’s doctor advised him to prepare his family for the worst. — Michael Nowels, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026

The video quickly sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many viewers expressing relief that the ride's safety restraints appeared to do their job despite the frightening ordeal. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 5 Aug. 2026

Four other lions who were ill are showing signs of recovery, the zoo said, with six others that have appeared to be in good health throughout the ordeal. — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 5 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ordal, from Old English ordāl; akin to Old High German urteil judgment, Old English dāl division — more at deal entry 3

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ordeal

• abele
• alkyl
• anneal
• appeal
• cartwheel
• conceal
• congeal
• coquille
• corneal
• cornmeal
• flywheel
• genteel

Kids Definition

ordeal

noun

or·​deal ȯr-ˈdē(-ə)l 

1

: a method of deciding guilt or innocence by making the accused person take dangerous or painful tests

ordeal by fire

2

: a severe test or experience