Definition

1. Noun:
   • Any of several muscles of the trunk: The "serratus muscles" are a group of muscles located on the side of the ribcage. They are characterized by their saw-toothed or serrated appearance where they attach to the ribs. These muscles are involved in movements of the scapula (shoulder blade) and ribcage, playing crucial roles in actions like pushing, lifting, and breathing.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The serratus muscles are essential for stabilizing the scapula during overhead movements.
  • An injury to the serratus muscles can cause winging of the scapula.
  • Strengthening the serratus muscles can improve posture and shoulder function.

Advanced Usage

• "Serratus anterior": The most prominent and commonly referenced muscle in this group, responsible for protracting the scapula (pulling it forward around the ribcage).
  • The serratus anterior is often called the 'boxer's muscle' because it is crucial for punching movements.
• "Serratus posterior": Refers to two muscles (superior and inferior) that are deeper and more involved in respiratory movements.
  • The serratus posterior superior assists in elevating the ribs during inhalation.

Variants and Related Words

• Serratus (n): Often used as a shorter form to refer to these muscles collectively.
  • The serratus can be palpated along the side of the ribcage.
• Serratus anterior muscle (n phrase): The full anatomical name for the primary muscle in this group.
• Serratus posterior superior muscle (n phrase): The upper of the two deeper serratus muscles.
• Serratus posterior inferior muscle (n phrase): The lower of the two deeper serratus muscles.

Synonyms

• Saw-toothed muscles: A descriptive synonym referencing their serrated edge.
• Scapular muscles: A broader category that includes the serratus muscles due to their action on the scapula.

Related Phrases

• "Winging of the scapula": A clinical sign often associated with paralysis or weakness of the serratus anterior muscle.
  • The patient presented with winging of the scapula, indicating possible serratus anterior dysfunction.
• "Scapular protraction": The primary action performed by the serratus anterior muscle.
  • The exercise focuses on scapular protraction to target the serratus anterior.

Noun

1. any of several muscles of the trunk