An anatomical muscle or structure that causes upright posture or elevation, specifically the muscle that makes hair stand on end.
From Latin 'arrector,' literally 'one who raises up,' from 'arrectus.' The term is preserved in modern anatomy as 'arrector pili,' the tiny muscles attached to hair follicles.
You literally have 'arrector pili' muscles covering your entire body—these ancient Latin-named structures are what make you get goosebumps when you're cold or frightened, a survival reflex we've inherited from furry ancestors!
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.