ENGLISH
REFERENCE

muscular

adj.
B1 Intermediate US //ˈməskjəɫɝ// UK //mˈʌskjʊlɐ// mus·cu·lar

adj. having large, strong muscles or relating to the muscles in your body. You use this to describe someone who looks physically powerful.

adj. having well-developed muscles or relating to the physical musculature of the body. Often used figuratively to describe something powerful, forceful, or vigorous.


SIMPLE

He has a very muscular build from years of swimming.

CONTEXTUAL

The athlete's muscular legs allowed her to sprint much faster than her competitors during the final lap.

COMPLEX

The government adopted a more muscular foreign policy, shifting from quiet diplomacy to assertive public statements and increased military presence in the region.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

Late 17th century; from muscle (Latin mūsculus) + -ar. Compare French musculaire.

Usage

Typically precedes the noun it modifies; can follow linking verbs like 'look' or 'become'.

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