trial definition

1. The act of trying or testing in any manner. Specifically:

Any effort or exertion of strength for the purpose of ascertaining what can be done or effected. "[I] defy thee to the trial of mortal fight." (Milton)

The act of testing by experience; proof; test. "Repeated trials of the issues and events of actions." (Bp. Wilkins)

Examination by a test; experiment, as in chemistry, metallurgy, etc.

2. The state of being tried or tempted; exposure to suffering that tests strength, patience, faith, or the like; affliction or temptation that exercises and proves the graces or virtues of men. "Others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings." (Heb. Xi. 36)

3. That which tries or afflicts; that which harasses; that which tries the character or principles; that which tempts to evil; as, his child's conduct was a sore trial. "Every station is exposed to some trials." (Rogers)

4. The formal examination of the matter in issue in a cause before a competent tribunal; the mode of determining a question of fact in a court of law; the examination, in legal form, of the facts in issue in a cause pending before a competent tribunal, for the purpose of determining such issue.

Synonyms: Test, attempt, endeavor, effort, experiment, proof, essay. See Test, and Attempt.

Origin: From Try.