connective tissue

noun

: a tissue of mesodermal origin that consists of various cells (such as fibroblasts and macrophages) and interlacing protein fibers (as of collagen) embedded in a chiefly carbohydrate ground substance, that supports, ensheathes, and binds together other tissues, and that includes loose and dense forms (such as adipose tissue, tendons, ligaments, and aponeuroses) and specialized forms (such as cartilage and bone)

Examples of connective tissue in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In short, collagen’s the glue holding our body together — ensuring strength, elasticity, and regeneration of connective tissues. Kate Donnelly, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 In a nutshell, flexibility is about range of motion — the ability of joints, muscles and connective tissues to perform the full scope of their natural movements smoothly, without pain. Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 20 Feb. 2024 This collection of awards and rituals mark the connective tissue, not only between Woods’ teams of past and present, but also reaching to the town’s rec program. Sam Cohn, Baltimore Sun, 9 Feb. 2024 The folds of flesh and connective tissue in the video looked foreign compared to what lay in front of me. Katie Hill, Outdoor Life, 4 Jan. 2024 New research published in Current Biology suggests that connective tissue masses are embedded in the vocal folds of the larynges of domestic cats. Jorge Garay, WIRED, 31 Oct. 2023 Marking something of a connective tissue from Akin’s previous film, two dance scenes play a significant part in the steady softening of Lia’s outlook. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Feb. 2024 Because joints with weak connective tissue are more likely to dislocate, experts tend to recommend exercises that can help stabilize and strengthen vulnerable areas. Korin Miller, SELF, 1 Feb. 2024 The plantar fascia, located on the bottom of the foot, is a thick band of connective tissue that runs from heel to toe and supports and stabilizes the arch of the foot. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'connective tissue.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of connective tissue was in 1846

Dictionary Entries Near connective tissue

Cite this Entry

“Connective tissue.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/connective%20tissue. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

connective tissue

noun
: a tissue (as bone, cartilage, or tendon) that forms a supporting framework for the body or its parts and has protein fibers between the cells composing it

Medical Definition

connective tissue

noun
con·​nec·​tive tissue kə-ˌnek-tiv- How to pronounce connective tissue (audio)
: a tissue of mesodermal origin that consists of various cells (as fibroblasts and macrophages) and interlacing protein fibers (as of collagen) embedded in a chiefly carbohydrate ground substance, that supports, ensheathes, and binds together other tissues, and that includes loose and dense forms (as adipose tissue, tendons, ligaments, and aponeuroses) and specialized forms (as cartilage and bone)

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