What does 'posterior' refer to in medical terms?

'Posterior' in medical terminology refers specifically to the back or rear side of the body. This term is often used in anatomy to describe the location of structures in relation to the body's orientation. For instance, when referring to the position of the heart, one might say it is posterior to the sternum, meaning it is located towards the back side of the chest.

In contrast, 'anterior' would mean the front side, 'superior' pertains to the upper part, and 'inferior' refers to the lower part. The distinction is important in anatomy as it helps to provide precise information about the location of various organs and tissues in relation to one another within the body. Understanding these directional terms is crucial for clear communication in medical contexts.