Meanings
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1
adj
of or relating to the chest, breast, or corresponding front region of an animal's body
The surgeon examined the nerves running through the pectoral region.
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2
noun
a pectoral fin, one of the paired fins near the front of a fish's body used for steering and braking
The fish turned sharply by moving its pectorals in opposite directions.
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3
noun
either of the large muscles covering the front of the human chest
The exercise strengthens each pectoral without straining the shoulder.
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4
adj
historical medicine: intended to relieve disorders of the chest or lungs
The physician prescribed a warm pectoral drink for the persistent cough.
Thesaurus
Etymology
From Latin pectoralis, 'of the breast or chest,' from pectus, 'breast.' English extended the anatomical adjective to paired fins and other structures occupying the chestward or front region of an animal. The historical medicinal sense described remedies for chest and lung complaints.