What term describes the band of fibrous tissue that connects bones or holds organs in place?

The term that describes the band of fibrous tissue connecting bones or holding organs in place is "ligament." Ligaments are crucial in the skeletal system as they provide stability to joints by connecting one bone to another, thereby supporting the structure and function of various joints in the body. They are composed of dense connective tissue that allows them to withstand tension and help prevent excessive movement that could lead to injury.

In contrast, tendons are the fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones, playing a vital role in facilitating movement. The fibula is a specific bone in the leg, and cartilage is a flexible tissue found in various parts of the body, such as the joints, providing cushioning. Each of these components has distinct functions in the musculoskeletal system, but ligaments uniquely serve the purpose of linking bones and maintaining joint integrity.