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

One victim, the father of a crypto millionaire, was allegedly held for days in a house south of Paris — and reportedly had a finger severed during the ordeal. —Mackenzie Sigalos, CNBC, 7 June 2025

Nearly two hours later, someone called 911 about diesel in the Harbor East marina, and by 2 p.m., officials began responding to the ordeal. —Saleen Martin, USA Today, 6 June 2025

Do your part and trust the process During Abraham’s challenging ordeal, his wife was also being tested. —Monica Haider, CNN Money, 6 June 2025

During a brief interview, Steinmetz still appeared to be rattled by the ordeal. —Deon J. Hampton, NBC news, 3 June 2025

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
• foveal

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