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sciatica
noun
sci·at·i·ca
sī-ˈa-ti-kə
: 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
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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 30 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
sciatica
noun
sci·at·i·ca
sī-ˈat-i-kə
: 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
: 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sciatica
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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