pectoral muscles – The muscles that connect the front of the chest to the bones of the upper arm and shoulder

(Pronounced pek-taw-ruhl)

To remember the meaning of pectoral muscles, use the following mnemonic:

The bird sitting on his shoulder pecked and tore all (pectoral) his shirt away around his chest.

The pectoral muscles are a pair of large muscles located on the chest, consisting of the pectoralis major and the smaller pectoralis minor underneath. The pectoralis major is the main chest muscle that originates from the clavicle (collarbone), sternum (breastbone), and upper ribs, and inserts into the humerus (upper arm bone). It's primary functions include adduction (bringing the arms toward the body), and internal rotation of the arms at the shoulder joint. The pectoral muscles are essential for pushing movements such as push-ups, throwing and any activity that involves moving the arms across the body or forward. They also help with deep breathing by assisting in expanding the rib cage during an intake of breath.