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.
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
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
"Life put a man on my path who has the same values, the same principles as me - and who has also been through many ordeals in his life."
From BBC ● Feb. 14, 2026
The trauma, harrowing ordeals or deaths that are typically depicted onscreen, and that audiences have come to expect from queer TV and films, were refreshingly absent.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 18, 2026
Despite the ordeals and deprivations, his face continued to radiate his innocence.
From "Night" by Elie Wiesel
