Pronunciation

/ˈmʌsəl/

Definitions

• Noun (n): A body tissue composed of cells or fibers that can contract and produce movement, typically attached to bones and serving to effect motion. For example: “She developed strong muscles through regular exercise.”

  • Also used metaphorically to refer to power or influence, e.g., “The government flexed its economic muscle.”

• Verb (v): To exert strength or force; to strain or make tense one’s muscles. For example: “He had to muscle the heavy box onto the shelf.”

  • Also used figuratively, meaning to use power or coercion to achieve something, e.g., “They muscled their way into the industry.”

Phrases

• “Flex your muscles”: To show off one’s strength or power, either physically or metaphorically.
• “Muscle memory”: The ability to perform a learned motor task without conscious thought, due to repetition and practice.
• “Work out your muscles”: Engage in physical activity to strengthen or tone the muscles.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Regular weightlifting helps build bigger and stronger muscles.”
• Verb: “The athlete muscled past his opponents to take the lead in the race.”

Synonyms

• Sinew
• Tissue
• Fibers
• Strength
• Power
• Force
• Brawn (for physical muscle)
• Assert (for the verb form)
• Coerce (when referring to using power)

Note: The synonyms provided may vary depending on whether they are for the noun sense (referring to bodily tissue) or the verb sense (referring to exerting force).