# midline

/ˈmɪdˌɫaɪn/ (US) · /mˈɪdlaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/midline
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

an imaginary line down the middle of your body or an object, dividing left from right. Doctors use it to describe where something is.

For teachers: an imaginary line dividing a body or structure into left and right halves, used as a reference for anatomical position.

## Examples

- The scar runs along the midline of his chest.
- The surgeon makes the first cut along the abdominal midline to reach the organs safely.
- Anatomists describe the spine as lying close to the dorsal midline, a reference that helps map symmetry across muscles, nerves, and vessels on either side.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.