anatomical directions

Superior (Cranial)

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

Inferior (Caudal)

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

Anterior (Ventral)

Toward the front of the body; in front of

Posterior (Dorsal)

Toward the back of the body; behind

Medial

Towards the midline of the body; on the inner side of

Lateral

Away from the midline of the body; other side

Intermediate

Between two structures

Proximal

Closer to the origin of the body

Distal

Away from the origin of the body

Superficial (External)

Toward the body surface

Deep (Internal)

Away from the body surface

Axial

Makes up the main axis of the body (head, neck, trunk)

Appendicular

Makes up the appendages (arms, legs)