ordeal
noun
any extremely severe or trying test, experience, or trial.
ordeals
-
pluralof ordeal.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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.
In the climatic entry in Jón Kalman Stefánsson’s Icelandic trilogy about a boy’s passage through ordeals on land and sea, the battered young hero takes refuge in a village.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 31, 2026
I never forgot how lucky I am to be here considering the horrors she experienced during World War II and her ordeals trying to give us a good life.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 23, 2026
That might be more feature than bug, but I can’t say I felt much of anything for the characters, or was concerned whether the Bowdens would emerge from their ordeals a stronger family.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 4, 2026
Bobruiko now helps document the ordeals of other detained civilians and works with an NGO called "Numo, Sestry!" or Come on, my sisters!
From Barron's ● May 8, 2026
Food and fire and rest had helped restore him after the ordeals of their journey, but he seemed sadder now, sullen, with a weary, haunted look about the eyes.
From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin
