Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Dorsal
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Dorsal: Relating to the back or posterior of a structure. As opposed to the ventral, or front, of the structure. Some of the dorsal surfaces of the body are the back, buttocks, calves, and the knuckle side of the hand.
For a more complete listing of terms used in medicine for spatial orientation, please see the entry to "Anatomic Orientation Terms".