What anatomical term describes a position further away from the midline of the body?

The term "lateral" is used to describe a position that is further away from the midline of the body. In anatomical terms, the midline refers to an imaginary line that divides the body into equal left and right halves. Therefore, any structure or position that is located toward the sides of the body, away from that central line, is considered lateral. This term is essential in medical and anatomical discussions, as it helps to specify the location of organs, muscles, or other structures within the body in relation to each other.

For instance, when discussing the location of the arms in relation to the torso, the arms are lateral to the midline. Understanding this terminology is crucial for effective communication in healthcare, as it eliminates ambiguity when describing positions and movements.