trial by ordeal

trial by or·​deal
-ȯr-ˈdēl, -ˈȯr-ˌdēl
: a formerly used criminal trial in which the guilt or innocence of the accused was determined by subjection to dangerous or painful tests (as submersion in water) believed to be under divine control

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Cite this Entry

“Trial by ordeal.” Merriam-Webster.com Legal Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/legal/trial%20by%20ordeal. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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