Ordeal (noun)

1. A difficult or painful experience.
2. A trial or test, especially one in which the subject undergoes severe physical hardship.

Origin:

Old english ordāl (noun), ordālian (verb), of germanic origin; related to old norse oddr "point of a weapon".

Examples:

1. The marathon was an ordeal for the runners.
2. The surgery was an ordeal, but it was successful.
3. The journey was an ordeal, with many delays and setbacks.
4. The job interview was an ordeal, but she was hired.
5. The legal process was an ordeal, but justice was served.