Lesson 14B: Skeletal Muscle Anatomy

Etymology

The study of the root of a particular word and how its use has evolved over time.

Skeletal Muscle Naming Criteria

Muscles are named based on their shape, size, location, number of origins, and action.

Frontalis

A muscle located on top of the frontal bone of the skull, also known as the frontal belly of the occipitofrontalis.

Gluteus Maximus

The largest muscle in the gluteal region, named for its size.

Quadriceps

A muscle group consisting of four muscles located on the anterior thigh.

Biceps Brachii

A muscle with two origins, indicated by the prefix 'bi'.

Sternocleidomastoid

A neck muscle with a dual origin on the sternum and clavicle, inserting on the mastoid process.

Flexor

A muscle that decreases the angle at the joint.

Abductor

A muscle that moves a bone away from the midline.

Medialis

Describes a muscle located towards the midline of the body.