The term “teres major” refers to a muscle in the upper limb,
specifically located in the shoulder area. The etymology of
“teres major” comes from Latin:
“Teres” means “round” or “smooth,” indicating the shape of
the muscle.
“Major” means “greater” or “larger,” distinguishing it from
the “teres minor” muscle, which is smaller and has a different
function.
So, “teres major” essentially translates to “the larger round
muscle.” This muscle is involved in the movement of the shoulder
and the upper arm, specifically aiding in actions such as
internal rotation, adduction, and extension of the humerus.
