ordeal

[awr-deel, -dee-uhl, awr-deel]

noun

1. any extremely severe or trying test, experience, or trial.

2. a primitive form of trial to determine guilt or innocence by subjecting the accused person to fire, poison, or other serious danger, the result being regarded as a divine or preternatural judgment.

ordeal

/ ɔːˈdiːl /

noun

1. a severe or trying experience

2. history a method of trial in which the guilt or innocence of an accused person was determined by subjecting him to physical danger, esp by fire or water. The outcome was regarded as an indication of divine judgment

Word History and Origins

Origin of ordeal¹

before 950; Middle English ordal, Old English ordāl; cognate with Dutch oordeel, German Urteil. See a- ³, dole ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of ordeal¹

Old English ordāl, ordēl; related to Old Frisian ordēl, Old High German urteili (German Urteil ) verdict. See _deal ¹ , _dole ¹

Example Sentences

Their ordeal cast a spotlight on the issue of forced disappearances of government critics, opposition figures and human rights defenders in Tanzania.

From BBC

One of the Filipino victims, who didn't want to be named, spoke to BBC News NI about the ordeal.

From BBC

In a historical sense, the party is going through a familiar ordeal: the struggle a party normally faces after losing an election.

From Los Angeles Times

Teddy's ordeal only stopped when the driver pulled up to a shop, but the experience knocked her confidence.

From BBC

"I now send Gena, her family and all those released my very best wishes. We will continue to provide all possible support as they recover from their terrible ordeal."

From BBC

Related Words

• agony 
• anguish 
• calamity 
• difficulty 
• nightmare 
• torment 
• torture 
• trial