semispinalis capitis

noun

semispinalis cap·​i·​tis -ˈkap-ət-əs How to pronounce semispinalis capitis (audio)
: a deep longitudinal muscle of the back that arises especially from the transverse processes of the upper six or seven thoracic and the seventh cervical vertebrae, is inserted on the outer surface of the occipital bone between two ridges behind the foramen magnum, and acts to extend and rotate the head

called also complexus

Dictionary Entries Near semispinalis capitis

Cite this Entry

“Semispinalis capitis.” Merriam-Webster.com Medical Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/semispinalis%20capitis. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!