What does the term 'distal' refer to?

The term 'distal' is used in anatomical terminology to describe a location relative to the point of attachment of a limb or structure to the body. When something is described as distal, it means that it is located farther away from the point of attachment, effectively indicating a position further down the limb or structure from where it connects to the body.

For example, in relation to the arm, the fingers are distal compared to the elbow, as they are further from the point of attachment of the arm to the shoulder. This terminology is essential for accurately describing the positioning of various body parts in relation to one another, which is crucial for effective communication in the medical field.