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The Human Body 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. Anatomical illustration of a cat in side view with its trunk and limb muscles exposed and labeled, showing major muscle groups such as trapezius, latissimus dorsi, gluteus, and biceps femoris. Illustration of the human leg from the front showing major muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the thigh and lower leg, each labeled for anatomical reference.
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sartorius muscle

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sartorius muscle, (from the Latin sartor, “mender”), long, narrow, ribbonlike thigh muscle beginning at the front of the crest of the pelvic girdle, extending obliquely down the front and side of the thigh, and inserted at (attached to) the inner and upper portion of the tibia (shinbone). It received its name because it is especially useful in assuming the cross-legged position that ancient tailors used in their work.

Action includes flexion of the thigh and of the leg at the knee and outward rotation of the femur (thighbone).

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Michele Metych.