backache

American

[bak-eyk] / ˈbækˌeɪk /

noun

a pain, especially in the lumbar region of the back, usually caused by the strain of a muscle or ligament.

backache British

/ ˈbækˌeɪk /

noun

an ache or pain in one's back

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of backache

First recorded in 1595–1605; back ¹ + ache

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fergison added that she had been worried that a new bout of backache was a sign that her cancer had returned but tests showed her initial treatment had "got all the cancer".

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2024

The Food and Drug Administration has approved capsaicin for the topical treatment of pain from arthritis, backache, strains and sprains.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 14, 2024

The symptoms of premature labor can include contractions, unusual vaginal discharge, the feeling of pressure in the pelvic area, low dull backache or cramps in the uterus or abdomen.

From Salon • Aug. 7, 2023

A person with monkeypox remains infectious while they have symptoms, which can include fever, headache, muscle aches, backache, lack of energy, swollen lymph nodes and a skin rash or lesions.

From Washington Post • Jun. 3, 2022

The girls complained of backache from bed-making, and fiery sensations in their feet from standing all day.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023