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 DeJonge’s family awaits word about their loved one, Alysia offers one major takeaway from the ordeal. —David Chiu, People.com, 21 Feb. 2025

The ordeal started when a homeowner called 911 to report a mountain lion in their backyard shortly before 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19, the Los Angeles Times reported. —Brooke Baitinger, Sacramento Bee, 21 Feb. 2025

The Polish Space Agency also addressed the ordeal in a statement, noting that the rocket part’s trajectory would have carried it toward Poland. —Jackie Wattles, CNN, 21 Feb. 2025

Manchester City also expressed full support for their star forward during the ordeal. —Oumou Fofana, Essence, 21 Feb. 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