What is "soleus muscle"

n. a broad flat muscle in the calf of the leg under the gastrocnemius muscle [syn: soleus]

In humans and some other mammals, the soleus is a powerful muscle in the back part of the lower leg (the calf). It runs from just below the knee to the heel, and is involved in standing and walking. It is closely connected to the gastrocnemius muscle and some anatomists consider them to be a single muscle, the triceps surae. Its name is derived from the Latin word "solea", meaning " sandal".