Muscled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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muscled

[ˈmʌsəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical description

The term 'muscled' refers to a physique characterized by well-defined muscles and a strong appearance. People described as muscled often possess a high degree of physical strength and athletic ability. This term is commonly used in fitness and bodybuilding contexts to denote individuals who have developed their muscle mass through training and exercise. A muscled person typically exhibits prominent muscle definition, indicating low body fat and significant physical conditioning.

Synonyms

athletic, brawny, fit, powerful, strong.

Examples of usage

  • He has a muscled build from years of weightlifting.
  • The athlete displayed a muscled physique during the competition.
  • She admired his muscled arms as he lifted the weights.
  • Muscled bodies are often celebrated in sports magazines.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, strength has been associated with masculinity, often symbolizing power and protection.
  • Bodybuilding and fitness culture in the 20th century popularized the ideals of having a 'muscled' physique through various media.
  • Many sports place a high value on muscular strength, often making it a key factor in athletic success.

Science

  • Muscle fibers can increase in size (hypertrophy) when you engage in strength training and resistance exercises.
  • As people age, they naturally lose muscle mass (sarcopenia), which can impact overall strength and metabolism.
  • Research shows that strength training not only builds muscle but also improves mental health by releasing endorphins.

Fitness Trends

  • High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and functional training have gained popularity for building muscle while improving endurance.
  • Supplementation with protein is often encouraged in fitness circles to support muscle growth and recovery after workouts.
  • Muscled physiques are often showcased in competitions like bodybuilding, which have specific categories for judging aesthetics and size.

Origin of 'muscled'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'musculus', meaning 'little mouse', likely due to the way muscles move under the skin.
  • In the 14th century, it started being used to describe strength and physical power in English literature.
  • The word has evolved to not only refer to physical strength but also to describe someone who is fit and athletic.

The word 'muscled' is derived from the noun 'muscle,' which originates from the Latin word 'musculus,' meaning 'little mouse,' because the shape of a muscle resembles that of a mouse under the skin. The transformation of 'muscle' into 'muscled' signifies possessing muscles, particularly in the context of a well-developed physique. The usage of the term gained popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in fitness and bodybuilding communities, as more people became aware of the importance of muscle development for health and aesthetics. As society moved towards fitness and wellness trends, the adjective 'muscled' began to represent not only strength but also a commitment to rigorous training and a healthy lifestyle. The evolving connotations of being 'muscled' have influenced various fields, including fashion, entertainment, and sports, where a well-defined physique is often associated with capability and attractiveness.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,706, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.