What does the term 'proximal' indicate about a body part?

The term 'proximal' is used in anatomy to describe a body part that is nearer to the trunk of the body or to a point of origin. This term is often used in contrast to 'distal,' which refers to body parts that are further away from the trunk or point of reference. For instance, when discussing the limbs, the shoulder is proximal to the elbow because it is closer to the center of the body. Understanding this terminology is crucial in medical and anatomical contexts, as it helps describe the location and relationships of various structures within the body relative to each other.