sciatica

noun

sci·​at·​i·​ca sī-ˈa-ti-kə How to pronounce sciatica (audio)
: pain along the course of a sciatic nerve especially in the back of the thigh
broadly : pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or adjacent parts

Examples of sciatica in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Common conditions that can cause back pain with walking include degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. Jennifer Steinhoff, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2024 The cushioned insole provides great arch support that makes the shoes comfy even for customers with sciatica and bad knees. Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2024 Traveling with sciatica can be a huge pain in the butt—literally. Kaitlyn McInnis, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Apr. 2024 Kelsey said the second pregnancy was more difficult, experiencing sciatica, Braxton-Hicks contractions and an aversion to chicken. Kyle Melnick, Washington Post, 7 Sep. 2023 See all Example Sentences for sciatica 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'sciatica.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Medieval Latin, from Late Latin, feminine of sciaticus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sciatica was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near sciatica

Cite this Entry

“Sciatica.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sciatica. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sciatica

noun
sci·​at·​i·​ca sī-ˈat-i-kə How to pronounce sciatica (audio)
: pain along the course of a sciatic nerve especially in the back of the thigh
also : pain in or near the hips

Medical Definition

sciatica

noun
sci·​at·​i·​ca sī-ˈat-i-kə How to pronounce sciatica (audio)
: pain along the course of a sciatic nerve especially in the back of the thigh caused by compression, inflammation, or reflex mechanisms
broadly : pain in the lower back, buttocks, hips, or adjacent parts

More from Merriam-Webster on sciatica

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