Need another word for Ordeals? Use these synonyms of Ordeals from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
trials
tests
hardships
challenges
difficulties
afflictions
tribulations
sufferings
torments
agonies
troubles
struggles
adversities
calamities
disasters
catastrophes
misfortunes
miseries
woes
distresses
anxieties
ordeals
hardships
vicissitudes
privations
deprivations
sacrifices
penalties
punishments
retributions
reprisals
vendettas
Meaning of Ordeals
A person's severely trying or painful experience.
Definitions
- A severe test or hardship, especially one that is prolonged or repeated
- * A primitive method of trial in which the accused is subjected to a physical test, such as being thrown into water or having to handle a hot iron, on the assumption that divine intervention would save the innocent
Etymology of Ordeals
The word "ordeal" has its roots in Old English and Germanic languages, with "ordeal" coming from Old English "ordāl", which is derived from "ord" meaning "judgement" and "dāl" meaning "part" or "share", referring to a trial by combat or other physical test
Historically, ordeals were used as a means of determining guilt or innocence in medieval Europe, often involving physical challenges or tortures
Example Uses
- The team faced a series of ordeals during their journey to the championship
- * She went through a terrible ordeal during the war, losing her family and home
- * The new policy has put many employees through an ordeal of uncertainty and stress
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
blessings
boons
benefits
advantages
privileges
luxuries
comforts
pleasures
delights
joys
happiness
bliss
ecstasy
euphoria
elation
thrill
excitement
satisfaction
contentment
peace
tranquility
serenity