Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The pectineus is a flat, quadrangular muscle located in the upper part of the inner thigh, playing a crucial role in hip flexion and adduction. It assists in both drawing the thigh towards the body's midline and raising it towards the abdomen.
Related terms
Hip flexion: The movement of bringing the thigh or top of the pelvis forward, a primary action enabled by muscles including the pectineus.
A movement towards the central line of the body, such as bringing the thighs together, with the pectineus being one of the muscles responsible for this action.
Pelvic girdle: A ring-like bony structure at the base of the spine to which leg bones are attached, and where muscles like the pectineus attach to facilitate leg movement