gastrocnemius

[ gas-trok-nee-mee-uhs, gas-truh-nee- ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural gas·troc·ne·mi·i [gas-trok-, nee, -mee-ahy, gas-tr, uh, -, nee, -].

1. the largest muscle in the calf of the leg, the action of which extends the foot, raises the heel, and assists in bending the knee.

Other Words From

• gastroc·nemi·al gastroc·nemi·an adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of gastrocnemius¹

1670–80; < New Latin < Greek gastroknēm ( ía ) calf of the leg + Latin -ius noun suffix

Example Sentences

The gastrocnemius increased in stiffness, indicating it might take over most of the function of the calf.

From Science Daily

To make this gouge, the cutter must have first removed the larger gastrocnemius muscle — likely a good source of meat.

From Scientific American

“They took it all the way down to the Achilles,” threading their way and removing necrotic tissue between the soleus and the gastrocnemius muscles.

From Washington Times

If the leg is chosen, the point of junction of the two heads of the gastrocnemius is an eligible situation.

From Project Gutenberg

It arises above from the external tuberosity of the tibia, and terminates below in a tendon which is united with that of the gastrocnemius.

From Project Gutenberg