Main Entry: tensor fas·ci·ae la·tae

Pronunciation: \-ˈfash-ē-ē-ˈlā-tē\

Variant(s): or tensor fas·cia la·ta \-ˈfash-ē-ə-ˈlā-tə\

Function: noun

: a muscle that arises especially from the anterior part of the iliac crest and from the anterior superior iliac spine, is inserted into the iliotibial band of the fascia lata about one third of the way down the thigh, and acts to flex and abduct the thigh

[tensor fasciae latae illustration]