musculus pectoralis major
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A large, fan-shaped skeletal muscle of the upper chest. Its primary functions are to adduct (draw toward the body) and medially rotate the arm at the shoulder joint. It is also a powerful flexor of the humerus (upper arm bone).
Usage
The term is used in anatomical, medical, fitness, and biological contexts to precisely identify this specific chest muscle. * In anatomy class, we studied the origin and insertion points of the musculus pectoralis major. * A tear in the musculus pectoralis major is a serious injury for a weightlifter. * The surgeon carefully repaired the ruptured musculus pectoralis major.
Advanced Usage
- Often referred to in comparative anatomy when discussing muscle homology across different species.
- In clinical notes, it may be abbreviated after first full mention (e.g., "...a rupture of the left pectoralis major...").
Variants and Related Words
- Pectoralis major (n): The common English name for . This is the term most frequently used in non-scientific contexts like fitness, physical therapy, and general medicine.
- Bench presses primarily target the pectoralis major.
- Pectoral muscle (n): A more general term that can refer to either the or the deeper muscle.
- Pecs (n, informal): A common slang term in fitness culture for the pectoral muscles.
- He's working hard to build his pecs.
Synonyms
- Greater pectoral muscle: An alternative anatomical name.
- Chest muscle (major): A descriptive, non-technical synonym.
Related Phrases
- Pectoralis major tendon: Refers to the thick tendon that attaches the muscle to the humerus, a common site of injury.
- Clavicular head of pectoralis major: Refers to the upper portion of the muscle that originates from the clavicle (collarbone).
- Sternocostal head of pectoralis major: Refers to the larger, lower portion of the muscle that originates from the sternum (breastbone) and ribs.
Noun
- a skeletal muscle that adducts and rotates the arm