muscle memory

noun

: the ability to repeat a specific muscular movement with improved efficiency and accuracy that is acquired through practice and repetition
They practice their routines with mind-numbing repetitiveness, for hours and days, weeks and years, so that each spinning, twisting landing off the high bar becomes an act of muscle memory.E. M. Swift

Examples of muscle memory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Once a violent attack is underway, the only tools that can be relied upon are skills committed to muscle memory through self-defense modes such as Jiu-Jitsu, according to Gracie. Angelica Stabile, Fox News, 11 May 2024 Even the precise tension of pulling Legos apart, a common muscle memory, has been simulated. Anna Wiener, The New Yorker, 15 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for muscle memory 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'muscle memory.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of muscle memory was in 1890

Dictionary Entries Near muscle memory

Cite this Entry

“Muscle memory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/muscle%20memory. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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