epidural
Epidural (noun) means an injection of anesthetic into the lower spine, commonly used to relieve pain during childbirth. Example: “She asked for an epidural once the contractions became unbearable.”
How to use epidural
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA pain-relief injection into the spine, most often used during labor.
Word forms
more epidural comparative, epidurals plural, most epidural superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She asked for an _____ once the contractions became unbearable.
Etymology
Formed from "epi-" ("upon, outside") plus "dural," relating to the dura mater, the tough outer membrane covering the spinal cord and brain.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for epidural
Frequently asked questions
What does “epidural” mean?
The word “epidural” means an injection of anesthetic into the lower spine, commonly used to relieve pain during childbirth. In plain terms, a pain-relief injection into the spine, most often used during labor.
How do you pronounce “epidural”?
“Epidural” is pronounced ehp-ih-DYOOR-ruhl (/ɛp.əˈd(j)ʊɹ.əl/ in IPA).
How do you use “epidural” in a sentence?
Here is “epidural” used in a sentence: “She asked for an epidural once the contractions became unbearable.”
What part of speech is “epidural”?
Depending on how it is used, “epidural” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “epidural” come from?
The word “epidural” comes from Latin. Formed from "epi-" ("upon, outside") plus "dural," relating to the dura mater, the tough outer membrane covering the spinal cord and brain.
How many meanings does “epidural” have?
“Epidural” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an injection of anesthetic into the lower spine, commonly used to relieve pain during childbirth.