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

For years, Bethany and Alisa — who now goes by Lisa — remained quiet about the entire ordeal but shared their memories of their mother and frustration during the case in 2000. —Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 12 Dec. 2025

This ordeal, in its simplest form, can take two different paths. —Noah White, Miami Herald, 10 Dec. 2025

The toughest part of the ordeal, however, was waiting for their arrival. —Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 10 Dec. 2025

Bruno has represented himself throughout his legal ordeal—relying heavily on his father, who is not an attorney—while the university has enlisted lawyers from the national law firm Saul Ewing. —Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 8 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