smooth muscle

American  

noun

Anatomy.

1. involuntary muscle tissue in the walls of viscera and blood vessels, consisting of nonstriated, spindle-shaped cells.

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smooth muscle British  

noun

1. muscle that is capable of slow rhythmic involuntary contractions: occurs in the walls of the blood vessels, alimentary canal, etc Compare striped muscle

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Etymology

Origin of smooth muscle

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

smooth muscle

These microscopic channels connect neighboring smooth muscle cells so they contract together rather than independently.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 13, 2026

They found striking parallels between changes in the smooth muscle cells and tumor cells, including hyperproliferation, resistance to cell death, and invasiveness.

From Science Daily ● May 1, 2024

During an attack, the smooth muscle surrounding the airways starts to squeeze and tighten, known as bronchoconstriction.

From BBC ● Apr. 4, 2024

The findings also shed important light on why the efforts of the smooth muscle cells sometimes are beneficial and sometimes are harmful.

From Science Daily ● Mar. 11, 2024

As a rule, such parts as are provided only with smooth muscle fibers are not voluntarily movable, while striated muscle fibers are subject to the will.

From Hygienic Physiology : with Special Reference to the Use of Alcoholic Drinks and Narcotics by Steele, Joel Dorman