Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

abductor muscle

Noun
/æbˈdʌk.tər ˈmʌs.əl/
Definition
A muscle whose contraction moves a body part away from the midline of the body or from another body part.
Examples
  • The abductor muscle in the thigh helps to move the leg away from the body.
  • In physical therapy, strengthening the abductor muscle is essential for improving hip function.
Meaning
Abductor muscles help to move limbs outward, contributing to various movements such as spreading fingers or toes.
Synonyms
  • spreading muscle
  • divergent muscle
  • outward-moving muscle