Definition

1. Noun:
   • A skeletal muscle that adducts and rotates the arm: The greater pectoral muscle is a large, fan-shaped muscle of the upper chest. Its primary functions are to pull the arm across the body (adduction) and to rotate the arm inward.

Usage

• The term "greater pectoral muscle" is used in anatomical, medical, fitness, and biological contexts to refer specifically to this major chest muscle. It is the formal anatomical name, though it is more commonly referred to simply as the "pectoralis major."

Examples

• Noun:
  • Strengthening the greater pectoral muscle is a common goal in weight training.
  • The surgeon carefully identified the greater pectoral muscle before beginning the procedure.
  • An injury to the greater pectoral muscle can limit arm movement.

Advanced Usage

• "Pectoralis major": This is the standard Latin anatomical term and a direct synonym for "greater pectoral muscle." It is used interchangeably in technical writing.
  • The pectoralis major originates from the clavicle, sternum, and ribs.

Variants and Related Words

• Pectoralis major (n): The Latin term for the greater pectoral muscle.
• Pectoral muscles (n, plural): A general term that can refer to the chest muscle group, often including both the pectoralis major and the smaller pectoralis minor.
• Pecs (n, plural, informal): A common slang term in fitness culture for the pectoral muscles.

Synonyms

• Pectoralis major: The primary synonym.
• Chest muscle: A general, non-technical term.

Notes on Meaning

• The "greater pectoral muscle" is distinguished from the "pectoralis minor" (or lesser pectoral muscle), which is a smaller, thinner muscle lying beneath it.
• Its actions are not limited to adduction and rotation; it also assists in flexing the arm (bringing it forward) and is crucial for movements like pushing.

Noun

1. a skeletal muscle that adducts and rotates the arm