- In anatomical terminology, the term “proximal” is used to describe a location on a limb that is closer to the point of attachment of that limb to the trunk of the body.
- This means that when comparing two points on the same limb, the one that is nearer to where the limb connects to the torso is considered proximal.

To clarify further:
- Proximal means closer to the origin or point of attachment.
- Its opposite term is “distal,” which refers to a position farther from the point of limb attachment.
- These terms are essential in medical and anatomical communication to describe locations clearly, especially along the length of limbs such as arms and legs.

For example, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow because it is closer to the point where the arm attaches to the body.

Reference: Gray’s Anatomy, 41st Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 1, Page 12