Which term refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body?

The term that refers to the movement of a limb away from the midline of the body is abduction. In anatomical terms, the midline represents an imaginary line that divides the body into left and right halves. When a limb, such as an arm or a leg, moves away from this midline, it is said to be undergoing abduction.

This movement is commonly observed when you raise your arms out to the side, away from your body, or when you spread your legs apart. Understanding this term is crucial not only in anatomy but also in fields such as physical therapy and rehabilitation, where specific movements are essential for recovery and functional movement.

Adduction, on the other hand, is the opposite movement, bringing limbs closer to the midline. Flexion describes a bending movement that decreases the angle between body parts, like bending the elbow. Supination refers to a rotation of the forearm or foot that turns the palm or sole upward or forward, which is a distinct concept not related to lateral movement. Recognizing these definitions helps clarify the precise nature of bodily movements in medical contexts.