ETYM as. ordâl, ordael, a judgment; akin to Dutch oordeel, German urteil, urtheil; orig., what is dealt out, the prefix or- being akin to â- compounded with verbs, German er-, ur-, Goth. us-, orig. meaning, out. Related to Deal; and cf. Arise, Ort.
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.
2. A severe trial or experience.
3. A severe or trying experience.