B1noun1K

Muscle

UK /["/ˈmʌsl/"]/US /["/ˈmʌsl/"]/

Definition

a piece of body tissue that you make tight and relax in order to move a particular part of the body; the tissue that forms the muscles of the body

In simple words: A type of tissue in the body that helps you move.

Examples

  • She worked hard at the gym to build her muscle.
  • He felt a muscle cramp after exercising too much.
  • The athlete's muscle definition was impressive.
  • They used their muscle to move the heavy furniture.
  • The researchers studied how muscle growth happens in the body.

Usage notes

The term 'muscle' can be used in both scientific and everyday contexts. It's appropriate in fitness discussions, biology, and health. Avoid informal phrases when in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'muscle' as having 'mass to sell' – imagine a bodybuilder selling their strength.

Collocations

  • hard
  • powerful
  • strong
  • clench
  • contract
  • flex
  • ache
  • burn
  • hurt
  • cell
  • fibre/​fiber
  • tissue
  • muscle in

Synonyms

  • sinew
  • muscularity
  • tissue

Antonyms

  • fatigue
  • weakness

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'muscles' (plural) when referring to more than one type.
  • Used as a verb incorrectly, as in 'to muscle someone' without context.