quadriceps

[kwod-ruh-seps] /ˈkwɒd rəˌsɛps/
noun, plural quadricepses
[kwod-ruh-sep-siz] /ˈkwɒd rəˌsɛp sɪz/ (Show IPA), quadriceps. Anatomy
1.
a large muscle in front of the thigh, the action of which extends the leg or bends the hip joint.
Origin
1830-40; < Neo-Latin, equivalent to quadri- quadri- + -ceps; see biceps
Related forms
quadricipital
[kwod-ruh-sip-i-tl] /ˌkwɒd rəˈsɪp ɪ tl/ (Show IPA), adjective
Examples from the web for quadriceps
  • He grabs my hand and puts it on one of his immense quadriceps.
  • One randomly selected group stretched their quadriceps, hamstrings and calves for three to five minutes before running.
  • The quadriceps muscle is an important muscle for running, jumping, and climbing.
  • Physical therapy, especially quadriceps strengthening and hamstring stretching, may be helpful.
British Dictionary definitions for quadriceps

quadriceps

/ˈkwɒdrɪˌsɛps/
noun (pl) -cepses (-ˌsɛpsɪz), -ceps
1.
(anatomy) a large four-part muscle of the front of the thigh, which extends the leg
Derived Forms
quadricipital (ˌkwɒdrɪˈsɪpɪtəl) adjective
Word Origin
C19: New Latin, from quadri- + -ceps as in biceps
Word Origin and History for quadriceps
n.

1840, see quadricep.

quadriceps in Medicine

quadriceps quad·ri·ceps (kwŏd'rĭ-sěps')
n.
The large four-part extensor muscle at the front of the thigh. adj.
Having four heads, said of certain muscles.

quadriceps in Science
quadriceps
  (kwŏd'rĭ-sěps')   
The large, four-part muscle at the front of the thigh that arises in the hip and pelvis and inserts as a strong tendon below the kneecap (patella). The quadriceps straightens and helps stabilize the knee.