Final answer:
The dorsal (or posterior) refers to the back or direction toward the back of the body, opposite of the anterior (ventral) which is the front.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'dorsal' is used in anatomical terminology to describe the back or the direction toward the back of the body. This term is synonymous with 'posterior', which is the opposite of 'anterior' or ventral, meaning the front of the body. For instance, the popliteus is dorsal (posterior) to the patella, and the dorsal cavity is the posterior body cavity that houses the brain and spinal cord. In contrast, the toes are anterior to the foot.
To clearly describe the location of structures within the human body, various terms such as dorsal, ventral, medial, lateral, proximal, and distal are used. These terms are essential for health professionals to communicate accurately about the location of organs or injuries.