Intercostal Muscle (Noun)
Meaning
Muscles between the ribs; they contract during inspiration.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- Intercostal muscles are divided into three layers, each with a specific function in the process of breathing.
- The intercostal muscle between the ribs helps to expand the chest cavity during inspiration, allowing the lungs to fill with air.
- When the intercostal muscles contract, the ribs move outward and the diaphragm descends, increasing the volume of the chest cavity.
- Damage to the intercostal muscle can lead to difficulties with breathing, especially during physical exertion.
- The intercostal muscle also plays a role in forced expiration, such as when a person coughs or sneezes.