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ordeal

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The definition of an ordeal is a very severe test, trial or difficult or painful experience.

(noun)

An example of ordeal is an extensive and long surgical procedure.

See ordeal in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

an ancient method of trial in which the accused was exposed to physical dangers, from which he or she was supposed to be divinely protected if innocent
any difficult, painful, or trying experience; severe trial

Origin: ME ordal < OE, akin to Ger urteil, judgment < WGmc *uzdailjo-, what is dealt out < *uzdailjan, to deal out, allot, adjudge < *uz-, out + *dailjan < *dails, a part, share

See ordeal in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A difficult or painful experience, especially one that severely tests character or endurance. See Synonyms at trial.
A method of trial in which the accused was subjected to physically painful or dangerous tests, the result being regarded as a divine judgment of guilt or innocence.

Origin:

Origin: Alteration (influenced by deal¹)

Origin: of Middle English ordal, trial by ordeal

Origin: , from Old English ordāl; see dail- in Indo-European roots

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