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trial by ordeal

/ˌtraɪ(ə)l baɪ ɔrˌdil/
IPA guide

Other forms: trials by ordeal

Definitions of trial by ordeal
  1. noun
    a primitive method of determining a person's guilt or innocence by subjecting the accused person to dangerous or painful tests believed to be under divine control; escape was usually taken as a sign of innocence
    synonyms: ordeal
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    type of:
    trial
    (law) the determination of a person's innocence or guilt by due process of law
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