What is the fixed end of a muscle known as?

The fixed end of a muscle is known as the origin. In the context of anatomy and muscle function, the origin refers to the attachment point of a muscle that is typically fixed or immovable, providing a stable platform for the muscle to exert force. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on its insertion, which is the end that moves and is usually attached to the bone that moves during the action.

The origin is essential in understanding how muscles work in relation to movement and stability. For example, when you perform a bicep curl, the origin of the biceps brachii is located at the scapula and does not move, while the insertion, which is on the radius bone of the forearm, moves toward the origin during contraction.

This explanation highlights the importance of distinguishing between the origin and the insertion in muscle anatomy and function. Knowing that the origin represents the fixed point helps clarify how muscles facilitate movement in the body.