What term describes a structure that is located farther from its origination?

The term "distal" is used in anatomical contexts to describe a structure that is located farther from its point of origin or from the center of the body. This is particularly relevant when discussing the limbs or other structures where you can differentiate between parts that are closer to the torso versus those that are farther away. For example, in the arm, the wrist is distal to the elbow, indicating its position further from the body's central axis.

In contrast, "proximal" refers to structures that are closer to the point of origin or to the center of the body, which is the opposite of distal. "Medial" pertains to structures that are closer to the midline of the body, and "lateral" applies to structures that are farther from the midline. Thus, understanding the correct directional terms is crucial for accurately describing the location of anatomical features in relation to one another.