trapezius

[truh-pee-zee-uhs]

noun

Anatomy.

plural

trapeziuses 

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)