Anatomical directional terms and planes

Superior

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

Inferior

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

Anterior (Ventral)

Refers to the front side of the body.

Posterior (Dorsal)

Refers to the back side of the body.

Medial

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

Lateral

Refers to a position farther from the midline of the body.

Proximal

Refers to a position closer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.

Distal

Refers to a position farther from the point of attachment or the trunk of the body.

Mid-Sagittal Plane

Divides the body into right and left parts.

Frontal Plane

Also known as the coronal plane, it divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) sections.

Transverse Plane

Divides the body into superior and inferior parts.