What is the best definition for the word lateral?

The definition of the word "lateral" pertains to positions or movements that are directed toward the side. In anatomical terminology, for example, "lateral" is often used to describe structures that are further away from the midline of the body, contrasting with terms like "medial," which refers to being closer to the middle. Understanding this word is particularly important in fields such as medicine and biology, where precise descriptions of location and direction within the body are essential.

By knowing that "lateral" relates to the side, one can visualize it in various contexts, such as lateral movements in sports, lateral thinking in problem-solving, or the lateral position of body parts. This understanding aids in grasping how "lateral" applies in different scenarios, making it a useful term beyond just its definition.