Street
muscle
What does muscle mean?
'Muscle' refers to the enforcers who provide physical intimidation for a criminal operation, or to the use of force. To 'muscle in' is to force one's way into a racket.
"They brought muscle to the meeting in case talk went sideways."
Origin
American slang, 20th century.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'muscle' mean in criminal slang?
It refers to the enforcers who provide physical intimidation for a criminal operation, or to the use of force itself.
What does 'muscle in' mean?
To muscle in is to force one's way into a racket or territory through intimidation.
Where does this sense of 'muscle' come from?
It is 20th-century American slang, extending the literal 'muscle' into a figure of physical force.
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