antagonist

Definition

In the muscular system, an antagonist muscle acts in opposition to the action of a specific agonist muscle, relaxing and yielding while the agonist contracts. This coordinated action allows for smooth and controlled movements.

Analogy

Consider a game of tug-of-war where one team pulls the rope towards themselves while the opposing team resists by pulling in the opposite direction; similarly, an antagonist muscle works by resisting the action of an agonist muscle to ensure movements are balanced and precise.

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