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

Speaking publicly for the first time about her ordeal, Muldrow says that the canvassers in her group were fired with little explanation beyond a complaint that someone had spoken with the press. —Jake Lahut, WIRED, 3 Nov. 2024

Her ordeals shaped a view of resilience as an active commitment to growth, not just responding to simple setbacks. —Dan Pontefract, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

Since her mother’s 2023 arrest and conviction, Shari, the oldest child, has been the most outspoken sibling about their family’s ordeal. —Lynsey Eidell, People.com, 27 Oct. 2024

These intimate moments are juxtaposed a bit awkwardly with scenes depicting Ito as a journalist investigating her own ordeal. —Natalia Winkelman, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 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