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Definitions

ordeal

[awr-deel, -dee-uhl, awr-deel] / ɔrˈdil, -ˈdi əl, ˈɔr dil /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When a vet knocked on Piers Walker's door to say her cat had been hit by a car, she did not expect the ordeal to end with bills worth £14,000.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

But getting the mangoes into the U.S. is still an ordeal.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

The whale's ordeal has sparked a media frenzy -- with non-stop coverage from TV channels, online outlets and social media influencers -- but has also led to angry spats and conspiracy theories.

From Barron's • May 2, 2026

Fighting against censorship and supporting freedom of expression doesn’t have to be an ordeal.

From Salon • Apr. 26, 2026

But anyone who fell afoul of them was still put through the ordeal of inquisition as a traitor.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein




Vocabulary lists containing ordeal