What anatomical term describes a position that is closer to the middle plane of the body?

The term that describes a position closer to the middle plane of the body is "medial." In anatomical terminology, "medial" refers to structures that are nearer to the midline, which divides the body into equal right and left halves. For instance, the nose is medial to the eyes, as it is located toward the center of the face. This concept is fundamental in anatomy as it helps in accurately describing the locations and relationships of various body structures.

In contrast, "lateral" refers to structures that are further away from the midline, highlighting the opposite relationship. "Distal" is used to indicate a position farther from the trunk of the body or a specific reference point, often in relation to the limbs. "Inferior" refers to a position that is lower or below another structure. Each of these terms serves a specific purpose in anatomical positioning, making "medial" the appropriate choice for describing something closer to the body's midline.