Meaning & Definition of word "Ordeal"
to
Ordeal
/ɔːrˈdiːl/
noun:
- 1. a painful or horrific experience, especially a protracted one.
- Example: The survivors described their ordeal during the natural disaster.
- 2. an experience that tests one's endurance or character.
- Example: Her long recovery from the surgery was an ordeal that tested her willpower.
- 3. a difficult or unpleasant situation.
- Example: Preparing for the final exams was an ordeal for all the students.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'ordæl', meaning a trial or judicial process.
Common Phrases and Expressions
trial by ordeal:
A situation in which someone must go through a challenging experience to prove their worth or innocence.
the ordeal is over:
A phrase indicating that a difficult situation has come to an end.
Related Words
trial:
A test of performance, patience, or quality.
tribulation:
A cause of great trouble or suffering.
Slang Meanings of ordeal
Meaning: A rough time.
Example Sentence: That whole week was an ordeal; I barely survived it.
Meaning: A struggle.
Example Sentence: Getting through finals felt like an ordeal.