Orientation and Directional Terms

Question 1

Superior

Answer 1

Toward the head end or upper part of a structure or the body; above

Question 2

Inferior

Answer 2

Away from the head end or toward the lower part of a structure or the body; below

Question 3

Ventral (anterior)

Answer 3

Toward or at the front of the body; in front of

Question 4

Dorsal (posterior)

Answer 4

Toward or at the back of the body; behind

Question 5

Medial

Answer 5

Toward or at the midline of the body; on the inner side of

Question 6

Lateral

Answer 6

Away from the midline of the body; on the outer side of

Question 7

Intermediate

Answer 7

Between a more medial structure and a more lateral structure

Question 8

Proximal

Answer 8

Closer to the origin of the body part or the point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk

Question 9

Distal

Answer 9

Farther from the origin of a body part or the point of attachment of a limb to the body trunk

Question 10

Superficial (external)

Answer 10

Toward or at the body surface

Question 11

Deep (internal)

Answer 11

Away from the body surface; more internal