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ordeal

Definition

  • noun: an experience that is very unpleasant or difficult
  • noun: a primitive means used to determine guilt or innocence by submitting the accused to dangerous or painful tests believed to be under supernatural control
  • usually singular
  • synonyms: trial

Examples

  • Being trapped in the elevator was a harrowing 'ordeal' for the shoppers.

  • I need to find a way to make traveling less of an 'ordeal'.

  • the 'ordeal' of cancer treatment

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Oh, God, this could be very unpleasant. Ay ! Bugger, bugger. Now what in the world in this garden could make that ordeal worthwhile ? Nice garden. ""For June who loved this garden. From Joseph who always sat beside her.'' Some people do spend their whole lives together. (..)
    1999 Notting Hill