What anatomical term is used to describe movement toward the body's midline?

The anatomical term that describes movement toward the body's midline is adduction. This term specifically refers to the action of bringing a limb or body part closer to the center line of the body. For example, when you bring your arms down towards your sides or when you move your legs closer together, you are performing adduction.

Understanding the significance of adduction is crucial in fields such as anatomy, physical therapy, and sports medicine, as it relates to joint movements, muscle function, and rehabilitation exercises. By differentiating adduction from other movement terms, such as protraction (which denotes movement forward, typically of the shoulder), hyperextension (which refers to extending a joint beyond its normal range of motion), and pronation (which involves rotating the forearm or foot), we can better understand how various movements affect the body during physical activity and treatment modalities.