n.
Pronunciation: o ̇ r- ' d ē (- ə )l, ' o ̇ r- ˌ
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English ordal, from Old English ord ā l; akin to Old High German urteil judgment, Old English d ā l division ― more at DEAL
Date: before 12th century
1 : a primitive means used to determine guilt or innocence by submitting the accused to dangerous or painful tests believed to be under supernatural control < ordeal by fire>
2 : a severe trial or experience