Japanese word

背筋

Pronunciation

Romajisesuji

Meaning

  • nounback muscles

Example

背筋を鍛えます。se suji o kita e ma su

I train my back muscles.

Illustration for 背筋 (back muscles)

More examples

長時間座った後は、背筋をゆっくり伸ばします。chō ji kan suwa tta ato wa se suji o yu kku ri no ba shi ma su

After sitting for a long time, I slowly stretch my back.

Core concept

Points to the central structure running lengthwise through the back, whether understood as its surrounding muscles or as the spine itself.

Common phrases

  • 背筋を伸ばすse suji o no ba su

    straighten your back

  • 背筋を曲げるse suji o ma ge ru

    bend your back

Definition in Japanese

背中に沿って伸びる筋肉。また、背中の中央を縦に通る骨。se naka ni so tte no bi ru kin niku ma ta se naka no chū ō o tate ni tō ru hone

Word origin

The compound 背筋 (sesuji) combines 背 (se, "back") and 筋 (suji, "muscle or fiber"), naming the muscles along the back.

Usage tips

  • The word 背筋 (sesuji) can refer to either back muscles or the spine, whereas 背骨 (sebone) specifically names the bones of the spine.

Other meanings

  • spinenoun

Word lists with this word