'' to '' meaning ? which one?

Question

What is the meaning of the preposition "to" in these sentences?

The shoulder is proximal to the elbow.

The ribs are lateral to the lungs.

to :

1. used for saying where someone or something is in relation to the position of another person or thing
2. used as a function word to indicate addition, attachment, connection, belonging, possession, accompaniment, or response

Which one ?

Answer 1

The first definition of "to" would apply to the sentences in question. In these cases, the preposition "to" describes the position of one thing in relation to another. A person's shoulder is closer to the center of their body (proximal) than their elbow.