dense connective tissue
(dents kuh-NEK-tiv TIH-shoo)
A type of tissue that is mostly made up of tough protein fibers called collagen and cells called fibroblasts. Dense connective tissue supports, protects, and holds bones, muscles, and other tissues and organs in place. Ligaments, tendons, the inner layer of the skin, and the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye) are all types of dense connective tissue. Also called fibrous connective tissue.