What does 'ventral' refer to in anatomical terms?

In anatomical terminology, 'ventral' refers specifically to the belly side of an organism. This term is often used to describe the location of body structures in relation to one another. For instance, in humans, the ventral side includes the front of the torso, where the stomach and other abdominal organs are located. This perspective is essential for understanding the directional terms that medical professionals and anatomists use to communicate about the human body and its positions accurately.

The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of 'ventral.' The back side corresponds to the term 'dorsal,' one-sided and both sides refer to more ambiguous terms that do not specifically signify a distinct anatomical position. Therefore, the emphasis on the belly side makes it clear why 'ventral' correctly describes that aspect of anatomy.