quadriceps

[ kwod-ruh-seps ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural quad·ri·ceps·es [kwod, -r, uh, -sep-siz], quad·ri·ceps.

1. a large muscle in front of the thigh, the action of which extends the leg or bends the hip joint.

quadriceps

/ ˈkwɒdrɪˌsɛps; ˌkwɒdrɪˈsɪpɪtəl /

noun

1. anatomy a large four-part muscle of the front of the thigh, which extends the leg

quadriceps

/ kwŏd′rĭ-sĕps′ /

1. The large, four-part muscle at the front of the thigh that arises in the hip and pelvis and inserts as a strong tendon below the kneecap (patella). The quadriceps straightens and helps stabilize the knee.

Derived Forms

• quadricipital, adjective

Other Words From

• quad·ri·cip·i·tal [kwod-r, uh, -, sip, -i-tl], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of quadriceps¹

1830–40; < New Latin, equivalent to quadri- quadri- + -ceps; biceps

Word History and Origins

Origin of quadriceps¹

C19: New Latin, from quadri- + -ceps as in biceps

Example Sentences

The 25-year-old participated in practice Wednesday for the first time after missing the last three games with a quadriceps injury.

From Los Angeles Times

One study, conducted on participants who did a series of squats designed to make their quadriceps sore, suggested that moist heat penetrates deeper into tissue faster and works more quickly than dry heat.

From Seattle Times

Gilgeous-Alexander returned to the lineup after sitting out Oklahoma City’s previous two games with a left quadriceps contusion.

From Seattle Times

Then it would shift to his hips or his adductors or his quadriceps.

From Los Angeles Times

Jacobs’ production dropped from 1,653 yards to 805 this season and he missed the final month because of a quadriceps injury.

From Seattle Times