adjective / noun
pectoral
PEK-ter-ul/ˈpektərəl/
Relating to the chest.
The model shows the paired pectoral muscles across the upper chest.
Etymology
Latin pectus names the breast or chest, so pectoral is a straightforward anatomical adjective. The familiar phrase “pectoral muscle” uses that same chest-related meaning.
In context
The pectoral muscles consist of the pectoralis major and the pectoralis minor, which are fan-shaped muscles of the shoulder. They shape the anatomy of the breast.
More examples
- Push-ups strengthen your pectorals.
- She strains a pectoral while lifting a heavy box.
- The diagram labels the nerves in the pectoral region.
Forms
pectoral · pectorals
Similar words
- thoracic
- Refers to the chest region, often including internal structures.