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

• cross
• crucible
• fire
• gauntlet
• gantlet
• trial

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 dealing with the insurance for Trevor’s insulin pump made the ordeal even more challenging. —Elizabeth B. Kim, The Enquirer, 12 June 2024

Seven years after the scary ordeal, Tarek finally told his side of the story in his memoir. —Natalia Senanayake, Peoplemag, 7 June 2024

The ordeal unintentionally created a rapid that’s become one of the most famous in the area. —Chris Biderman, Sacramento Bee, 7 June 2024

Talking about the ordeal proved to be good therapy. —Scott Haugen, Outdoor Life, 5 June 2024

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

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