What does epidural mean?
An epidural is a form of regional anaesthesia delivered by injecting medication into the epidural space — the area just outside the membrane covering the spinal cord. It blocks nerve signals from the lower body and is best known for relieving the pain of childbirth, though it is also used in some surgeries and for managing certain types of chronic back pain. The word functions both as a noun ('she had an epidural') and as an adjective in medical terms such as 'epidural space' or 'epidural haematoma', where it describes something located on the dura mater. Derived from Greek 'epi-' (upon) and Latin 'dura' (hard), the term entered English through medical usage. Because of its strong association with modern obstetrics, the word carries largely neutral connotations and is familiar to most speakers, even those who have never experienced one firsthand.
An injection of anaesthetic into the epidural space of the spine, used to numb the lower body, particularly during childbirth.
"After hours of labour she asked for an epidural."
Often used informally to mean 'epidural anaesthesia' generally.
Situated on or pertaining to the dura mater, or administered into the epidural space.
"The surgeon drained an epidural abscess from the patient's spine."
Standard regular plural, used when referring to multiple injections or procedures.
"Epidurals are among the most common forms of pain relief offered in maternity wards."
The word 'epidural' literally means 'upon the hard mother' — a nod to the dura mater, whose Latin name translates as 'tough mother'.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of epidural
The term 'epidural' combines the Greek prefix 'epi-', meaning 'upon' or 'over', with the Latin 'dura' (short for 'dura mater'), meaning 'hard' or 'tough' — so it literally means 'upon the tough membrane'. The phrase 'dura mater' itself was a medieval Latin translation of Arabic anatomical writing. 'Epidural' emerged in English medical vocabulary in the late nineteenth century as anaesthetic techniques advanced.
Related word forms
How epidural is actually used
As a noun, 'epidural' is informal-medical shorthand for 'epidural anaesthesia' and is widely understood in everyday speech, especially in maternity contexts. As an adjective it appears chiefly in clinical terminology.
Easily confused with epidural
An epidural is located outside the dura mater, whereas a subdural haematoma or injection lies beneath it.