From Greek sterno– meaning sternum + Greek kleis meaning clavicle + Greek mastoeides meaning breast (due to shape of the mastoid process)
Anatomy definition: Paired neck muscles, each connecting sternum, clavicle and mastoid process (of temporal bone). Acting together they nod and rotate the head.
Outlander definition: two elegant neck muscles, all the better for Jamie to nibble!
Learn about the sternocleidomastoid muscle in Anatomy Lesson #12, “Claire’s Neck” or “The Ivory Tower.”
Read about Jamie biting Claire’s neck in Outlander book:
“If you’ll not let me be spiritual about it, you’ll have to put up wi’ my baser nature. I’m going to be a beast.” He bit my neck. “Do ye want me to be a horse, a bear, or a dog?”
See Claire’s sternocleidomastoid muscle in Starz episode 109, The Reckoning!
A deeply grateful,
Outlander Anatomist
OH…love the one muscle I love to say…say it slow, it rolls off the tongue…s t e r n o c l e i d o m a s t o i d…say it fast, goodness your so smart!! LOOK..there is Sam…and what do you do…you turn head ever so fast…sternocleidomastoid muscle go to work…nibble, nibble…
Hi Michelle: Snort! Thank you for the fun comment! Yes, that guy really turns heads, doesn’t he? Love it!