Hinterfläche

Hinterfläche is a German term that denotes the surface on the rear or posterior side of an object, relative to a defined orientation. It contrasts with Vorderfläche, the front surface. In technical contexts, the term specifies the side of a component that faces away from the viewer or from a reference direction in drawings, assemblies, and measurements.

In engineering and product design, the Hinterfläche may be described for housings, panels, or devices where the back or inner side is relevant for assembly, insulation, drainage, or user interaction not visible in the primary view. In anatomy and biology, the term is used to indicate the posterior aspect of a structure or the surface facing toward the back of the body; it helps describe location and relationships when precise orientation is required.

In materials science, crystallography, and microscopy, the Hinterfläche can refer to the rear surface of a specimen after preparation, particularly in contexts involving reflections, transmitting or reflecting paths, or polishing directions.

The term is more formal and technical than Rückseite or Rückfläche, which are common in everyday German. It is generally used when a clear, orientation-specific designation of the back surface is required, whereas in everyday language Rückseite is often sufficient.