Directional Terms

Question 1

Superior or Cranial

Answer 1

Toward the head end of the body; upper

E.g. the hand is part of the superior extremity

Question 2

Inferior or Caudal

Answer 2

Away from the head; lower

E.g. the foot is part of the inferior extremity

Question 3

Anterior or Ventral

Answer 3

In front of or front

Eg. the kneecap is located on the anterior side of the leg

Question 4

Posterior or Dorsal

Answer 4

back

E.g. the shoulder blades are located on the posterior side of the body

Question 5

Medial

Answer 5

toward the midline of the body

E.g. the middle toe is located at the medial side of the foot

Question 6

Lateral

Answer 6

away from the midline of the body

E.g. the little toe is located at the lateral side of the foot

Question 7

Proximal

Answer 7

toward or nearest the trunk or the point of origin of a part

E.g. the proximal end of the femur joins with the pelvic bone

Question 8

Distal

Answer 8

away from or farthest from the trunk or the point or origin of a part

E.g. the hand is located at the distal end of the forearm