PECTORALIS MUSCLE Meaning and
Definition
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The pectoralis muscle, also known as the pectoralis major, is a large, fan-shaped muscle located in the chest region of the body. It is one of the major muscles of the upper body and plays a crucial role in various movements of the arms and shoulders.
The pectoralis muscle is divided into two sections: the sternal head and the clavicular head. The sternal head originates from the sternum, or breastbone, while the clavicular head originates from the clavicle, or collarbone. Both heads of the muscle converge and attach to the humerus bone of the upper arm.
Functionally, the pectoralis muscle primarily acts to flex, adduct, and medially rotate the arm at the shoulder joint. It assists in bringing the arm closer to the body, such as during exercises like the bench press or push-ups. Additionally, it aids in rotational movements of the arm, such as throwing a ball or swinging a racket.
Strengthening and developing the pectoralis muscle is a common goal for many individuals who engage in upper body workouts and weightlifting. Strong pectoral muscles not only contribute to an aesthetically pleasing chest but also support overall upper body strength and stability.
It is important to note that while the pectoralis muscle is predominantly associated with males due to its size and prominence, it exists in both males and females, albeit with some variations in size and shape.
Common Misspellings for PECTORALIS MUSCLE
- oectoralis muscle
- lectoralis muscle
- -ectoralis muscle
- 0ectoralis muscle
- pwctoralis muscle
- psctoralis muscle
- pdctoralis muscle
- prctoralis muscle
- p4ctoralis muscle
- p3ctoralis muscle
- pextoralis muscle
- pevtoralis muscle
- peftoralis muscle
- pedtoralis muscle
- pecroralis muscle
- pecforalis muscle
- pecgoralis muscle
- pecyoralis muscle
- pec6oralis muscle
- pec5oralis muscle
Etymology of PECTORALIS MUSCLE
The word "pectoralis" comes from the Latin word "pectoralis", which means "of or relating to the chest" or "pertaining to the breast". It is derived from the Latin word "pectus", meaning "chest" or "breast".
The word "muscle" comes from the Latin word "musculus", which means "little mouse". This term was used because the ancient Romans believed that muscles, particularly the flexing biceps, resembled the movements of a mouse.
Therefore, when combined, "pectoralis muscle" refers to the chest muscle, specifically the large muscle group located in the upper chest region.
