epidural

 
Pronunciation: /ˌɛpɪˈdjʊər(ə)l/

adjective

Anatomy & Medicine
  • on or around the dura mater, in particular (of an anaesthetic) introduced into the space around the dura mater of the spinal cord.

noun

  • an epidural anaesthetic, used especially in childbirth to produce loss of sensation below the waist.

Origin:

late 19th century: from epi- 'upon' + dura1 + -al