subdict-logo

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

  • (..) Mr President... Let me introduce you to Professor Mactilburgh. lt's an honour, Mr President. Where are my two heroes? They were so tired from their ordeal, we put them in the reactor. l have meetings after this. Let me see if they're revived. Thank you. (..)
    1997 The Fifth Element