INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE Meaning and
Definition
-
Intercostal muscles refer to the group of muscles found between the ribs in the human body. These muscles play a crucial role in the mechanics of breathing. The word "intercostal" derives from the Latin roots "inter," meaning between, and "costa," meaning rib. Hence, the term appropriately describes the muscles located between the ribs.
There are three layers of intercostal muscles: the external intercostals, internal intercostals, and innermost intercostals. The external intercostal muscles are the largest and most superficial layer. They aid in the elevation of the ribcage during inhalation, contributing to the expansion of the chest cavity and facilitating the intake of oxygen. Conversely, during expiration, these muscles relax.
The internal intercostal muscles, lying deep to the external intercostals, have fibers oriented in the opposite direction. They are responsible for the depression of the ribcage during forced exhalation, helping to expel carbon dioxide from the lungs. These muscles are more active during vigorous physical activities or when breathing needs to be increased, such as during exercise.
The innermost intercostal muscles are the deepest layer and are situated between the internal intercostals and the innermost layer of muscles lining the thoracic cavity. These muscles have similar functions to the internal intercostals and primarily contribute to the expiration process. However, their role is less significant compared to the other two layers.
Collectively, the intercostal muscles are vital for respiration, enabling the movements of the ribcage, and assisting in the ventilation of the lungs.
Common Misspellings for INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE
- untercostal muscle
- jntercostal muscle
- kntercostal muscle
- ontercostal muscle
- 9ntercostal muscle
- 8ntercostal muscle
- ibtercostal muscle
- imtercostal muscle
- ijtercostal muscle
- ihtercostal muscle
- inrercostal muscle
- infercostal muscle
- ingercostal muscle
- inyercostal muscle
- in6ercostal muscle
- in5ercostal muscle
- intwrcostal muscle
- intsrcostal muscle
- intdrcostal muscle
Etymology of INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE
The word "intercostal" comes from the Latin roots "inter", meaning "between", and "costa", meaning "rib". Therefore, "intercostal" literally means "between the ribs". The term "intercostal muscle" refers to the muscles located between the ribs in the human body.
Similar spelling words for INTERCOSTAL MUSCLE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
