muscle
Meaning: Body tissue that contracts to produce movement; power or influence
A muscle is a body tissue that can contract to produce movement. Humans have over 600 muscles that control everything from walking to breathing. The word is also used figuratively to mean power or influence, as in 'political muscle' or to 'muscle in' on something.
Examples
- Regular exercise helps to build muscle. 经常锻炼有助于增长肌肉。El ejercicio regular ayuda a desarrollar músculo.定期的な運動は筋肉をつけるのに役立ちます。규칙적인 운동은 근육을 키우는 데 도움이 된다.
- I pulled a muscle in my back whilst lifting boxes. 我搬箱子时拉伤了背部肌肉。Me hice un tirón en un músculo de la espalda mientras levantaba cajas.箱を持ち上げているときに背中の筋肉を痛めました。상자를 들다가 등 근육을 다쳤다.
- The company used its financial muscle to dominate the market. 这家公司利用其财力主导了市场。La empresa usó su músculo financiero para dominar el mercado.その会社は財力を使って市場を支配しました。그 회사는 자금력을 이용하여 시장을 지배했다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin 'musculus' meaning 'little mouse', diminutive of 'mus' (mouse). The Romans thought a flexing muscle, especially the bicep, resembled a mouse moving under the skin. The same metaphor exists in Greek and Arabic.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
Story & Trivia
From Latin 'musculus' meaning 'little mouse' - the Romans thought the movement of muscles under the skin looked like mice scurrying about. This charming image gave us the English word we use today.
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