Definition of "trapezius" [trapezius]

• Either of two large flat triangular muscles running from the base of the occiput to the middle of the back that support and make it possible to raise the head and shoulders. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "[88] The muscle of the back, called the trapezius, is an example of this."
• "LB Trevor Scott missed the final three practices with a trapezius pull."
• "Cheryl Anne released me after a few more minutes and told me my trapezius muscles were tight."