In anatomical positions, what does "distal" refer to?

The term "distal" is used in anatomical terminology to describe a location that is farther from the trunk of the body or from the point of attachment of a limb. In this context, it refers to parts of the body that are further away from the central axis or from where the limb connects to the body. For instance, the fingers are considered distal to the wrist because they are further from the point of attachment of the hand to the arm.

Using "distal" helps in providing clarity when discussing anatomical relationships, which is crucial in medical and biological contexts. This concept is particularly relevant in anatomy to distinguish between parts of limbs or structures that may be at varying distances from the core of the body.