A rough, bumpy ridge of bone coursing inferiorly from the intertrochanteric crest to the superior end of the linea aspera. In other animals, and sometimes humans, this bumpy ridge becomes very prominent and is called the third trochanter. As its name suggests, it serves as the attachment site of the gluteus maximus muscle. The deep, distal fibers of this muscle attach to this landmark.

Gluteal is a term that arises from the Greek word gloutos meaning the rump or buttocks. Homer also used the term in the Iliad to describe the hip. Tuberosity derives from the Latin term tuber meaning a lump. The -osity ending denotes many or to be full of something. The term then literally translates as having lots of lumps.