Directional Terms (definitions only)

Front

What does 'superior' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is above or higher than another part of the body.

Front

What does 'inferior' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is below or lower than another part of the body.

Front

What does 'anterior' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is towards the front of the body.

Front

What does 'posterior' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is towards the back of the body.

Front

What does 'medial' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is closer to the midline of the body.

Front

What does 'lateral' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is further away from the midline of the body.

Front

What does 'proximal' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is closer to where a limb attaches to the body.

Front

What does 'distal' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is further from where a limb attaches to the body.

Front

What does 'superficial' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is closer to the surface of the body.

Front

What does 'deep' mean?

Back

Refers to a position that is further from the surface of the body.