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pectoralis major
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Illustration of the human neck showing labeled muscles, arteries, veins, and bones, including the sternocleidomastoid, digastric, mylohyoid, trapezius, carotid artery, jugular vein, clavicle, and thyroid cartilage. An anatomical illustration of the human upper limb and chest from the front, showing labeled muscles such as the deltoid, pectoralis major, biceps, triceps, and serratus anterior, along with the cephalic vein and thoracoacromial artery. Illustration of the human muscular system from a side view, showing detailed muscles throughout the body with labels identifying major muscles in the head, torso, arms, and legs. An anatomical illustration of the human torso highlighting the muscles of the abdominal wall, with labeled structures including the deltoid, pectoralis major, serratus anterior, latissimus dorsi, external and internal oblique, rectus abdominis, and associated connective tissues. Detailed anatomical illustration of the human upper arm from the front, showing the superficial muscles, major nerves, and tendons. Key structures like the deltoid, biceps brachii, brachialis, and associated nerves are labeled.
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pectoralis major

anatomy
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Illustration of the human neck showing labeled muscles, arteries, veins, and bones, including the sternocleidomastoid, digastric, mylohyoid, trapezius, carotid artery, jugular vein, clavicle, and thyroid cartilage.
muscles of the neck; human muscle system Muscles of the neck.

The pectoralis major is a large, superficial muscle in the chest that connects the chest wall to the upper arm and shoulder bones. It originates from the clavicle, sternum, ribs, and abdominal muscles, and attaches to the humerus (upper arm bone).1

Its primary functions include bringing the arm towards the body (adduction) and rotating it forward. When the arms are held up, it assists in pulling the body upwards. The pectoralis major also plays a role in stabilizing the shoulder by attaching to the clavicle, which is part of the pectoral girdle.12

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. pectoralis muscle
  2. pectoral muscle
  3. pectoral girdle

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