slow-twitch

adjective

ˈslō-ˌtwich How to pronounce slow-twitch (audio)
: of, relating to, or being muscle fiber that contracts slowly especially during sustained physical activity requiring endurance compare fast-twitch

Examples of slow-twitch 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.
The researchers used a sample from the animal’s slow-twitch muscle fibers. — Evan Bush, NBC news, 14 Nov. 2025 Finally, muscles that have a higher proportion of fast-twitch to slow-twitch fibers strain more readily. — Nicole Wetsman, Popular Science, 24 May 2023 Women also have a greater relative proportion of what’s called type 1 muscle fibers, also known as slow-twitch muscle fibers, than men. — Claire Maldarelli, Scientific American, 2 July 2026 Compared to most mammals, humans have more slow-twitch muscle fibers, which are energy efficient when running long distances. — Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 May 2024 From your biceps and triceps to your quads and glutes, your skeletal muscles contain slow-twitch (type I) and fast-twitch (type II). — Tiffany Ayuda, Health, 13 Apr. 2024 Men typically have more fast-twitch muscles that are helpful for quick and powerful movements, while women tend to have more slow-twitch muscles that can allow for more workout efficiency. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 3 Nov. 2025 The gene expression in the muscle tissue suggested a predominance of slow-twitch muscle fibers indicating the mammoth's muscles were built for stamina, ideal for long, steady travel across the cold, expansive steppes. — Jay Kakade december 03, New Atlas, 3 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of slow-twitch was in 1958

Rhymes for slow-twitch

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Browse Nearby Words

slow study
slow-twitch
slow-up
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Cite this Entry

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

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Medical Definition

slow-twitch

adjective
ˌslō-ˌtwich How to pronounce slow-twitch (audio)
: of, relating to, or being muscle fiber that contracts slowly especially during sustained physical activity requiring endurance compare fast-twitch
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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