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

According to the league website, James will miss the start of his record 23rd NBA season and will be re-evaluated in 3-4 weeks due to sciatica. —Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 14 Oct. 2025

Redick acknowledged the team was trying to figure out what its starting lineup would be in light of LeBron James being sidelined to start the season because of sciatica on his right side. —Khobi Price, Oc Register, 13 Oct. 2025

With LeBron James set to miss the start of the season due to sciatica, the Lakers will have to do their best to stay afloat, missing one of their superstars. —Valentina Martinez, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025

The 40-year-old Lakers superstar will miss opening night due to sciatica, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. —Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for sciatica

• hepatica

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