The term inferior (caudal) describes which direction?

• A. Nearer the front
• B. Downward toward the feet
• C. Upward toward the head
• D. Toward the midline

Answer: (B)

Inferior (caudal) describes a direction toward the feet, i.e., downward in the vertical axis. In the standard anatomical position, this means lower on the body; structures below others are described as inferior or caudal. It is opposite to superior and distinct from anterior (toward the front) and medial (toward the midline). For example, the knee is inferior to the hip, and the foot is inferior to the knee.