Distal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Distal describes something situated away from the center or point of attachment, often used in anatomy or biology. For example, the fingers are distal to the wrist.
Definition:
Situated away from the center or point of attachment, often referring to limbs or structures.
Synonyms:
remote, peripheral, outer, far
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
proximal, central
Common Collocations:
distal end, distal portion, distal phalanx, distal joint
Derivatives:
distally, distality
Usage Tips:
Use "distal" to describe something farther from a reference point in anatomy or spatial relationships.
Common Phrases:
distal end of the bone, distal to the elbow, distal margin
Etymology:
From Latin "distare," meaning "to stand apart," combining "dis-" (apart) and "stare" (to stand).
Examples:
- 1. The fracture occurred at the distal end of the radius.
- 2. The nerve damage affected the distal part of her arm.
- 3. In anatomy, the fingers are distal to the wrist.
- 4. The surgeon repaired the tendon in the distal forearm.