rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymusculatureSystem of muscles
noun

musculature

MUS-kyuh-luh-cher/ˈmʌskjələtʃər/

The system or arrangement of muscles in a body or body part.

The anatomical models show the torso’s musculature.

A medical-school tabletop anatomical teaching model of the human upper torso, red sculpted muscle groups visible across chest, shoulders and upper arms; front and back model busts side by side.
Etymology
musculLatinmuscle; little mouse
+atureFrenchnoun-forming ending

Latin musculus meant “little mouse”: the shape and movement of certain muscles were thought to resemble mice. Musculature names the muscles collectively as an organized system.

In context

Medical Research Foundation6:06
The muscles of this group form the intrinsic musculature. The intrinsic muscles are arranged in four layers from superficial to deep.
Back of Neck Anatomy | Surface Landmarks, Ligamentum Nuchae & Muscles Simplified

More examples

  • Training changed the horse’s musculature.
  • The sculptor studied human musculature.
  • The model highlights the musculature beneath the skin.

Forms

musculature

Similar words

muscles
Muscles names the individual tissues; musculature considers their whole arrangement or system.
build
Build describes overall bodily form; musculature specifically concerns its muscles.