Definition

Anterior means "in front of" or "the front surface of."

It usually refers to the front side of the body. For example, your knee caps are on the anterior part of your body.

Alternative Names

Ventral

Gallery

Anatomical landmarks adult - front — There are three body views (front, back, and side) that can help you to identify a specific body area. The labels show areas of the body which are identified either by anatomical or by common names. For example, the back of the knee is called the “popliteal fossa,” while the “flank” is an area on the side of the body.

References

Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Anterior. www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anterior. Accessed January 17, 2023.

Last reviewed October 20, 2022 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

Related specialties

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My Location

Anterior