What is meant by abduction in terms of movement?

Abduction refers specifically to the movement of a limb or a body part away from the midline of the body. This type of movement is essential in various bodily functions and movements, such as raising the arms or legs sideways. For example, when you lift your arms outward from your sides, you are performing abduction.

Understanding abduction is crucial in fields such as anatomy and physical education, as it plays a significant role in body mechanics and the execution of various physical activities. The term is often coupled with its counterpart, adduction, which means moving toward the midline, highlighting the directional nature of these movements in relation to the body's center.