What does the term "protraction" refer to in anatomical movement?

The term "protraction" refers specifically to the movement of a part of the body forward, typically in a horizontal plane. This term is often used in the context of describing the motion of the shoulders or the jaw. For example, when you extend your arms forward or when your head moves forward relative to your neck, you are performing protraction.

In contrast, other movements such as retraction would describe moving a body part backward. Revolving a bone around its axis is known as rotation, while breaking a bone is referred to as a fracture. Understanding these specific terms is crucial in anatomy and kinesiology, as they provide clarity on how different parts of the body move in relation to one another.