What term refers to the back or toward the back of the body?

The term that refers to the back or toward the back of the body is "dorsal." In anatomical terminology, the dorsal aspect is associated with the backside of an organism, which is particularly important when discussing the orientation of structures within the body.

For instance, in many mammals, the dorsal surface includes the back, while the ventral surface refers to the belly. This orientation is crucial in various medical and anatomical contexts, such as in imaging, surgical procedures, and physical assessments. Understanding these directional terms helps in accurately describing locations and relationships of anatomical structures and is essential for effective communication in clinical settings.

The other terms, while related to body orientation, do not specifically point to the back. Anterolateral pertains to the front and side, lateral indicates a position away from the midline of the body, and ventral refers to the front or belly side. Thus, "dorsal" correctly identifies the back orientation.