Final answer:
The proximal, lateral bulge of the femur is referred to as the greater trochanter, a significant bony landmark for muscle attachments on the hip.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proximal, lateral bulge of the femur is known as the greater trochanter. This large, bony expansion projects superiorly from the base of the femoral neck and serves as an attachment point for several muscles of the hip. A trochanter is a tubercle of the femur near its joint with the hip bone. In humans and most mammals, the trochanters serve as important muscle attachment sites. The greater trochanter provides leverage and support for the movement of the thigh and is an easily palpable landmark on the side of the hip. It is a large bony expansion that projects superiorly from the base of the femoral neck. The greater trochanter provides attachment sites for muscles and tendons of the hip and thigh regions.