neuralgia

noun

neu·​ral·​gia nu̇-ˈral-jə  nyu̇- 

: acute paroxysmal pain radiating along the course of one or more nerves usually without demonstrable changes in the nerve structure

neuralgic

nu̇-ˈral-jik 

nyu̇-

adjective

Examples of neuralgia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The rash can lead to complications, the most common one being long-term nerve pain, postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN, the CDC notes. —ABC News, 30 Apr. 2026

Postherpetic neuralgia — lingering nerve pain in the area where the rash appeared — is the most common complication. —Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 29 Apr. 2026

The Shingles Complications Can Be Serious The most common complication is postherpetic neuralgia — lingering nerve pain that can persist long after the blisters clear. —Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2026

Creams and lotions can help ease the itching that accompanies the rash, and prompt medical attention reduces the chance of complications like postherpetic neuralgia or vision problems. —Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

neur- + -algia, probably after French névralgie

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing neuralgia

• trigeminal neuralgia

Kids Definition

neuralgia

noun

neu·​ral·​gia n(y)u̇-ˈral-jə 

: pain that follows the course of a nerve

also : a condition marked by such pain

Medical Definition

neuralgia

noun

neu·​ral·​gia n(y)u̇-ˈral-jə 

: acute paroxysmal pain radiating along the course of one or more nerves usually without demonstrable changes in the nerve structure compare neuritis

neuralgic

-jik 

adjective