Anatomical Position Terms

Figure 1.8 Chapter 1 pg 13 Pearson Textbook

Anatomical Position

standard body position in anatomy where the body is erect with feet slightly apart and the palms face forward and the thumbs point away from the body standing at “attention”

Cephalic

in relation to the head

Frontal

Refers to the frontal lobe and bone of the brain

Orbital

refers to the structure and function of the orbits, which are the bony cavities in the skull that house and protect the eyes

Nasal

structure that includes multiple components to work together to facilitate breathing, olfaction, and protection against airborne pathogens

Buccal

cavity in the body that’s located in the cheeks containing salivary glands that secrete saliva for digestion and speech

Oral

broad cavity of the body that includes anatomy of the entire mouth and its structures such as teeth, tongue lips, and gums

Mental (chin)

region that serves as various functions related to structural support, mastication (chewing), speech, and facial expressions

Cervical

refers to the structure that supports the head, protects spinal cord, and enables various motions

Thoracic

area of the body that contains vital organs such as the heart, lungs, esophagus, trachea, and thymus gland

Thorax

the part of the vertebrate body between the neck and abdomen (commonly referred to as the chest)

Sternal