Pectoralis Major
Pectoralis Major
The Pectoralis Major (pronounced: pek-toh-RAY-lis MAY-jor) is a thick, fan-shaped muscle, situated at the chest (anterior) of the human body. It makes up the bulk of the chest muscles in the male and lies under the breast in the female.
Etymology
The term "Pectoralis Major" is derived from the Latin words 'pectus' which means 'breast' and 'major' meaning 'greater'. It is named so due to its larger size compared to the Pectoralis Minor, the other muscle in the pectoral region.
Function
The Pectoralis Major's primary functions are flexion, adduction, and internal rotation of the humerus (the bone of the upper arm or forelimb). It is the chief muscle used in actions such as lifting and pushing.
Related Terms
- Pectoralis Minor: A thin, triangular muscle, situated at the upper part of the chest, beneath the Pectoralis Major in the human body.
- Humerus: The bone of the upper arm or forelimb, forming joints at the shoulder and the elbow.
- Flexion: A position that is made possible by the joint angle decreasing.
- Adduction: The movement of a body part toward the body’s midline.
- Internal Rotation: Rotation towards the center of the body.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pectoralis Major
- Wikipedia's article - Pectoralis Major
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