Which term indicates a position that is nearer to the surface of the body?

The term that indicates a position nearer to the surface of the body is "superficial." This term is used in anatomical contexts to describe structures that are located close to the outer layer of the skin or the exterior of the body. For instance, if a wound is described as superficial, it means the injury is not deep and involves only the surface layers of the skin rather than deeper tissues or organs.

In contrast, the term "deep" refers to structures that are located further away from the body's surface, indicating a position that is more internal. "Proximal" describes a location that is closer to a reference point, typically the trunk of the body, while "medial" indicates a position toward the midline of the body. Understanding these positional terms is crucial in medicine for clear communication regarding the location of injuries, conditions, or anatomical structures.