What term describes a position that is directed toward the outer part of the body?

The term that describes a position directed toward the outer part of the body is "peripheral." In anatomical terminology, "peripheral" specifically refers to structures that are located away from the center or core of the body or an organ. This could involve anything from the limbs extending away from the torso to sensory nerves that transmit signals from the outer parts back to the central nervous system.

In contrast, terms like "dorsal" pertain to the back side of the body, "pertaining to the middle" indicates a position that is central or not toward the outer regions, and "medial" refers to a position that is closer to the midline of the body. Thus, "peripheral" uniquely captures the idea of being toward the outer edges, making it the correct choice in this context.