Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ordeal

noun
/ɔrˈdil/
Definition
A difficult or painful experience, often one that tests a person’s endurance or character.
Examples
  • After surviving the ordeal of the storm, the townspeople came together to rebuild their homes.
  • Going through a lengthy trial was an emotional ordeal for the family.
Meaning
An ordeal refers to a challenging situation that someone goes through, often involving significant hardships.
Synonyms
  • trial
  • test
  • hardship
  • affliction