What term refers to being closer to the point of origin?

The term that refers to being closer to the point of origin is "proximal." In anatomical terminology, "proximal" indicates a position that is nearer to the trunk of the body or to the point of attachment of a limb. For example, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow, meaning the shoulder is closer to the torso compared to the elbow.

Understanding this term is important in fields like anatomy, massage therapy, and any other practice that involves understanding human body orientation and movement. It helps professionals accurately describe locations of injuries, points of tension, or treatment areas in relation to the body’s structure.

In contrast, other terms such as "distal" indicate a position farther from the body or point of origin, "medial" refers to being closer to the midline of the body, and "lateral" refers to being further away from the midline. These terms help establish clear and precise communication regarding anatomy and interventions within the body.