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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
James has missed the entire season to this point and is likely out multiple more weeks due to sciatica. Max Dible, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025 Flares of conditions like sciatica and arthritis can also happen. Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Oct. 2025 James has been sidelined to start the season because of sciatica. Khobi Price, Oc Register, 27 Oct. 2025 LeBron James is out with sciatica. Jason Anderson, Sacbee.com, 26 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sciatica

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sciatica.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sciatica. Accessed 1 Nov. 2025.

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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