Anatomical Directional Terms

Directional terms describe the locations of structures in relation to other structures or locations in the body. These terms often have a counterpart with converse or opposite meaning. Below are examples of some commonly used anatomical directional terms.

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Distal

Away from, farther from the origin

Anatomical Directional Terms

Anterior	Distal	Dorsal	Inferior	Lateral	Rostral
Posterior	Proximal	Ventral	Superior	Medial	Caudal

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