trapezius

[ truh-pee-zee-uhs ]

noun

, Anatomy.

, plural tra·pe·zi·us·es.

1. a broad, flat muscle on each side of the upper and back part of the neck, shoulders, and back, the action of which raises, or rotates, or draws back the shoulders, and pulls the head backward or to one side.

trapezius

/ trəˈpiːzɪəs /

noun

1. either of two flat triangular muscles, one covering each side of the back and shoulders, that rotate the shoulder blades

Word History and Origins

Origin of trapezius¹

1685–95; < New Latin, short for trapezius musculus trapeziform muscle

Word History and Origins

Origin of trapezius¹

C18: from New Latin trapezius ( musculus ) trapezium-shaped (muscle)

Example Sentences

The bilateral trapezius muscles were manually segmented, followed by muscle T2 extraction.

From Science Daily

The approval of such injections for cosmetic purposes is only limited to procedures involving the face, making the use of the injection in the trapezius "off-label".

From Reuters

But the sources of Mike’s appeal — a heart as big as his trapezius, resolve as firm as his glutes, a character as sturdy as his quadriceps — haven’t changed.

From New York Times

You can use it on any muscle group, but Davé says people often find it helpful on the trapezius, the group of muscles between the neck and shoulders.

From Washington Post

The thread between both injuries is the trapezius muscle — near the base of his neck and upper back — that has caused discomfort in two of his outings this year.

From Washington Post