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Anatomy
Basics
Terminology Introduction to the musculoskeletal system Introduction to the other systems
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Cross sections
Head and neck Upper limb Thorax Abdomen Male pelvis Female pelvis Lower limb
Radiological anatomy
Head and neck Thorax Abdomen and pelvis Upper limb Lower limb
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AnatomyBasicsTerminologyInferior
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AnatomyBasicsTerminologyInferior

Inferior

Author: Gordana Sendić, MD • Reviewer: Dimitrios Mytilinaios, MD, PhD
Last reviewed: October 30, 2023
Reading time: 1 minute

Recommended video: Directional terms and body planes [10:35]
Locating structures in your body is one of the main components of anatomy. Learn all terms used to describe location in the human body.
Inferior
1/2
Synonyms: none

Inferior is a directional term used to describe a structure that is situated below relative to a specific reference point. It also refers to a structure that is directed downwards towards the toes.

Likewise, the prefix infra- indicates that a structure lies inferior to another, such as that the infraclavicular lymph nodes are found inferior to the clavicle.

The directional term opposite of inferior is superior. For example, the pelvis lies inferior to the abdomen, while the abdomen lies superior to the pelvis.

Terminology English: Inferior
Latin: Inferior
Synonyms: Caudal, infra-
Examples Inferior vena cava, inferior mesenteric artery

Now that you know what inferior means, continue learning about other directional terms in the following study unit:

Directional terms and body planes Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.

Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. (2017). Clinically oriented anatomy (8th ed.). Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.

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