extensor

noun

ex·​ten·​sor ik-ˈsten(t)-sər How to pronounce extensor (audio)
: a muscle serving to extend a bodily part (such as a limb)

Examples of extensor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Doing split squats or lunges increases your hip and knee extensor muscle strength. — Mallory Creveling, Health, 15 May 2026 Hernández had surgery to repair a torn muscle and torn extensor tendon in his left elbow during the offseason. — CBS News, 26 May 2026 Gently stretching your wrist flexors and extensors (which are connected to your elbow) can help reduce elbow pain after lifting. — Oluseun Olufade, Verywell Health, 20 Sep. 2024 Coulombe missed nearly a month in May with a left forearm extensor strain, then a separate IL stint in September with left shoulder fatigue. — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extensor

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of extensor was in 1615

Rhymes for extensor

See All Rhymes for extensor

Browse Nearby Words

extensometer
extensor
extensor thrust
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Extensor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/extensor. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

extensor

noun
ex·​ten·​sor ik-ˈsten(t)-sər How to pronounce extensor (audio)
: a muscle serving to extend a bodily part (as a leg or arm)

Medical Definition

extensor

noun
ex·​ten·​sor ik-ˈsten(t)-sər How to pronounce extensor (audio) -sȯ(ə)r How to pronounce extensor (audio)
: a muscle serving to extend a bodily part (as a limb)

called also extensor muscle

compare flexor
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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