What anatomical term is used to describe the position of a structure relative to the trunk?

The term used to describe the position of a structure relative to the trunk is "proximal." This term indicates that a particular structure is closer to the point of attachment or the trunk of the body when compared to another structure. For instance, in the context of the limbs, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow, meaning it is closer to the central part of the body. This concept is essential in understanding anatomical relationships and orientations, especially in discussions of injuries or conditions affecting limbs and their connections to the body.

In contrast, "medial" refers to a position that is closer to the midline of the body, while "lateral" denotes a position further away from the midline. "Distal," on the other hand, indicates a structure that is farther away from the trunk or the point of attachment, such as the fingers being distal to the wrist.