(FY-brus kuh-NEK-tiv TIH-shoo)

A type of tissue that is mostly made up of tough protein fibers called collagen and cells called fibroblasts. Fibrous 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 fibrous connective tissue. Also called dense connective tissue.