Which term refers to the back of the body?

The term that refers to the back of the body is "dorsal." In anatomical terminology, "dorsal" is used to describe the posterior aspect of the body, which is the side that faces away from the front. This is particularly relevant in various contexts, such as when talking about the position of organs or the orientation of limbs. For instance, when referring to the human body, the back of the hands or the spine is described as dorsal.

Understanding this term is essential because it helps in accurately describing locations of structures or injuries in a clinical setting. For instance, if a medical professional describes an injury on the dorsal side of the body, it clearly communicates that the issue is on the back side, which aids in diagnosis and treatment.

The other terms, while relevant in different contexts, do not apply to the back specifically. "Anterior" refers to the front of the body, "deep" signifies a position further away from the surface, and "contralateral" denotes structures situated on opposite sides of the body. Thus, “dorsal” is the most appropriate term for indicating the back.