extensor

[ ik-sten-ser, -sawr ]

noun

, Anatomy.

1. a muscle that serves to extend or straighten a part of the body.

extensor

/ ɪkˈstɛnsə; -sɔː /

noun

1. any muscle that stretches or extends an arm, leg, or other bodily part Compare flexor

extensor

/ ĭk-stĕn′sər /

1. A muscle that extends or straightens a limb or joint.
2. Compare flexor

Word History and Origins

Origin of extensor¹

1700–10; < New Latin, equivalent to Latin extend ( ere ) to extend + -tor -tor, with -dt- > -s-

Word History and Origins

Origin of extensor¹

C18: from New Latin, from Latin extensus stretched out

Example Sentences

If the wrist extensor muscles are contracted, the fingers re-open and the hand releases the pen.

From Science Daily

Of particular interest is the relationship between the extensors and the hamstrings, the two most important muscle groups in the knee.

From Science Daily

He left with what the Red Sox said was right forearm extensor tightness.

From Seattle Times

Clarke Schmidt had been in the mix but has been shut down for three to four weeks due to a strained common extensor tendon near his elbow in his right arm.

From Washington Times

Crick underwent a procedure Tuesday to repair the extensor tendon, performed by Dr. Scott Hanson in San Francisco.

From Seattle Times