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

As the stars of Another Simple Favor dodge questions about their co-star’s ordeal, director Paul Feig is coming to Blake Lively‘s defense. —Glenn Garner, Deadline, 3 May 2025

Two years after Gwyneth Paltrow had her day in court, the Hollywood powerhouse is giving her verdict on the legal ordeal. —Edward Segarra, USA Today, 2 May 2025

Romi Gonen, who spent 471 days as a Hamas hostage held in the tunnels under Gaza, details his long ordeal, ongoing recovery and fervent prayer that President Trump can get all the remaining hostages freed. —Staff, FOXNews.com, 1 May 2025

Saigon Sandwich Shop offers takeout and delivery via the major apps like Uber Eats and GrubHub, which is one way to get around the cash-only ordeal. —Kaitlyn Rosati, New York Daily News, 30 Apr. 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