The meaning of ORDEAL is a primitive means used to determine guilt or innocence by submitting the accused to dangerous or painful tests believed to be under supernatural control. How to use ordeal in a sentence.
ORDEAL definition: 1. a very unpleasant and painful or difficult experience: 2. in the past, a way of trying to find…. Learn more.
Define ordeal. ordeal synonyms, ordeal pronunciation, ordeal translation, English dictionary definition of ordeal. n. 1. A difficult or painful experience, especially one that severely tests character or endurance. See Synonyms at trial. 2. A method of trial in which the...
Definition of ordeal noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
ordeal (plural ordeals) (historical) A trial in which the accused was subjected to a dangerous test (such as ducking in water), divine authority deciding the guilt of the accused. trial by ordeal (figuratively) A painful or trying experience.
ordeal, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary
ordeal /ɔːˈdiːl/ n a severe or trying experience a method of trial in which the guilt or innocence of an accused person was determined by subjecting him or her to physical danger, esp by fire or water. The outcome was regarded as an indication of divine judgment Etymology: Old English ordāl, ordēl; related to Old Frisian ordēl, Old High German urteili (German Urteil) verdict. See deal1 ...
ORDEAL definition: any extremely severe or trying test, experience, or trial. See examples of ordeal used in a sentence.
Learn the English definition and meaning of Ordeal with examples, pronunciation, and translations to enhance your vocabulary.