The word "biceps" is pronounced as /ˈbaɪsɛps/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It comes from the Latin word "biceps" meaning "two-headed". The spelling of this word is interesting because the "-ceps" part is derived from the Latin word "caput" which means "head". However, in English, it is spelled with "-ceps" instead of "-ceps". This is because the English word "head" also starts with "h", so using "-ceps" helps to distinguish the word and add clarity to its spelling.
The term "biceps" refers to a specific muscle group found in the human body, specifically in the upper arm region. It is an important muscle that plays a significant role in the movement and stability of the arm. The word "biceps" is derived from the Latin term "bis" meaning "two" and "caput" meaning "head," indicating the muscle has two distinct tendons connecting to different points of origin.
The biceps muscle, also known as the biceps brachii, consists of two heads: the long head and the short head. The long head originates from the supraglenoid tubercle of the scapula, while the short head originates from the coracoid process of the scapula. These two heads fuse together to form the main bulk of the muscle, which then inserts onto the radial tuberosity of the radius bone in the forearm.
The primary function of the biceps is to enable flexion at the elbow joint and supination of the forearm. When the biceps contracts, it shortens and pulls the forearm towards the upper arm, resulting in flexion. It also assists in rotating the forearm outward, a movement known as supination. Additionally, the biceps plays a secondary role in stabilizing the shoulder joint during certain movements.
The development and strength of the biceps are often targeted through specific exercises like bicep curls, chin-ups, or hammer curls, which help to enhance the muscle's size and functionality.
Having two heads; noting especially certain muscles, which see under musculus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Double-headed; in anat., applied to certain muscles that divide into two portions.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "biceps" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the combination of two Latin words: "bi", meaning "two", and "ceps", meaning "head" or "origin". In Latin, "biceps" referred to a muscle with two heads or origins, particularly in the arm. The term was originally used in the context of anatomy, describing a muscle with two attachments or tendons, hence the modern usage to describe the muscle in the upper arm.