# ordeal

/ɔɹˈdiɫ/ (US) · /ɔːdˈiəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ordeal
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a very difficult, painful, or unpleasant experience that lasts for a long time. You use this word when something was much harder to get through than a normal problem.

For teachers: an extremely severe or trying experience that tests a person's endurance or character. Historically refers to an ancient form of trial by physical test, but in modern usage, it describes any prolonged stressful event.

## Examples

- The long flight was a real ordeal for the small children.
- After being lost in the mountains for three days, the hikers were finally rescued, ending their terrifying ordeal.
- The survivors of the shipwreck recounted their harrowing ordeal to the press, describing the weeks spent adrift with dwindling supplies and little hope of discovery.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with adjectives like 'harrowing', 'terrible', or 'long' to emphasize the difficulty of the experience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.