muscle

[ˈmʌsl]

muscle Definition

  • 1a band or bundle of fibrous tissue in a human or animal body that has the ability to contract, producing movement in or maintaining the position of parts of the body
  • 2physical power; strength

Using muscle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "muscle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He pulled a muscle in his leg while running.

  • Example

    She has well-defined arm muscles from lifting weights.

  • Example

    The heart is a muscle that pumps blood throughout the body.

  • Example

    The athlete's muscles bulged as he lifted the heavy weights.

muscle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for muscle

Antonyms for muscle

Idioms Using muscle

  • lacking in physical strength or power

    Example

    He may be smart, but he has no muscle to back up his ideas.

  • to apply more effort or force to achieve something

    Example

    If you want to finish the project on time, you'll need to put some muscle into it.

  • to have influence or control over someone

    Example

    The boss has a muscle on everyone in the office.

Phrases with muscle

  • flex one's muscles

    to show off one's strength or power

    Example

    The new CEO flexed her muscles by making some bold decisions.

  • the ability to reproduce a particular movement without conscious thought, acquired as a result of frequent repetition of that movement

    Example

    After practicing the dance routine for weeks, it became muscle memory and she could perform it effortlessly.

  • to force oneself into a situation or activity without being invited or welcome

    Example

    He tried to muscle in on our conversation, but we ignored him.

Origins of muscle

from Latin 'musculus', meaning 'little mouse', because of the resemblance of some muscles to mice

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Summary: muscle in Brief

The term 'muscle' [ˈmʌsl] refers to fibrous tissue that can contract, producing movement or maintaining body position. It also denotes physical power and strength. Examples include pulling a muscle while running and having well-defined arm muscles from lifting weights. Phrases like 'flex one's muscles' and 'muscle memory' extend its usage, while idioms like 'no muscle' and 'put some muscle into' highlight its figurative meanings.

How do native speakers use this expression?