Abdominals - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

muscles

The abdominal muscles are a group of muscles located in the abdomen. They play a crucial role in supporting the trunk, assisting in breathing, and protecting the internal organs.

Synonyms

abs, core muscles.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
abdominals	Use 'abdominals' in formal or medical contexts, often when discussing anatomy or specific parts of the body's muscle structure. The workout routine focuses on strengthening the abdominals. The doctor explained the function of the abdominals in digestion.
abs	Use 'abs' in casual or informal contexts, often when talking about fitness or physical appearance. I've been doing crunches to get six-pack abs. Her abs were really toned after months of working out.
core muscles	Use 'core muscles' when discussing overall body strength, stability, and workouts that include the lower back, hips, and abdominals. This exercise helps strengthen your core muscles. Yoga is great for improving your core muscles.

Word

Description / Examples

abdominals

Use 'abdominals' in formal or medical contexts, often when discussing anatomy or specific parts of the body's muscle structure.

The workout routine focuses on strengthening the abdominals.
The doctor explained the function of the abdominals in digestion.

abs

Use 'abs' in casual or informal contexts, often when talking about fitness or physical appearance.

I've been doing crunches to get six-pack abs.
Her abs were really toned after months of working out.

core muscles

Use 'core muscles' when discussing overall body strength, stability, and workouts that include the lower back, hips, and abdominals.

This exercise helps strengthen your core muscles.
Yoga is great for improving your core muscles.

Examples of usage

The abdominals are often targeted in exercises like crunches and planks.
Strong abdominals can help improve posture and prevent lower back pain.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

The primary muscles considered as abdominals include the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis.
These muscles play a crucial role in protecting vital organs within the abdomen.
Strong abdominal muscles are important for maintaining good posture and supporting the spine.

Fitness Culture

Fitness enthusiasts often focus on abdominal exercises to achieve a ‘six-pack’ appearance.
Core workouts, which include abdominals, are considered essential for athletes in various sports.
Planks and crunches are popular exercises designed specifically to strengthen abdominal muscles.

Sports

Many sports, from gymnastics to swimming, require strong abdominals for stability and balance.
In contact sports, strong abs can help absorb the impact and reduce injuries.
Athletes often use abdominal training as part of their conditioning to enhance performance.

Health

Weak abdominals can lead to poor posture and back pain, highlighting their importance for overall health.
Maintaining strong abdominals supports better digestion and can even improve respiratory functions.
Abdominal strength is often linked to better performance in everyday activities, such as lifting and bending.

Origin of 'abdominals'

Main points about word origin

The term 'abdominal' comes from the Latin word 'abdomen', which means 'belly'.
In the 16th century, the word started being used in English to describe the digestive area.
The word is also linked to the Greek word 'koilia', which means 'cavity' or 'hollow'.

The word 'abdominals' originates from the Latin word 'abdominis', which means 'belly'. The concept of abdominal muscles has been present in human anatomy for centuries, with ancient civilizations recognizing the importance of core strength. Over time, the term 'abdominals' has become commonly used in fitness and health contexts to refer to the muscles in the abdominal region.

Abdominals Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations