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

Travel headaches were plentiful throughout the two-day ordeal, with luggage being separated from its owners as flights across the country trickled to a stop. —Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026

The next hearing is set for March 17, and Maduro and his wife have waived their right to a speedy trial, so the full criminal proceedings against them could become a lengthy ordeal. —Matt Gutman, CBS News, 5 Jan. 2026

Mbolo Isac remains parked at the scene during the entire ordeal, the worker said. —Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 2 Jan. 2026

The ordeal generated local headlines, as Berman had to navigate sheer rocks and treacherous terrain in the dark to save the mutt. —Joe Berman, Outside, 26 Dec. 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