Connective tissue is the most common type of tissue in the human body. It is made up of cells, fiber, and a matrix.

Examples:

Adipose (fat)

Adipose functions as a heat insulator beneath the skin. It provides stored energy supply in fat vacuoles. The cells are greatly enlarged with the nuclei pushed to the sides.

Blood

Blood contains a large amount of fluid and lacks fibers.

Osseous (bone)

The cells are arranged around a central canal.

Dense connective tissue

The main tissue of tendons and ligaments. Connects muscle to bone.

Elastic cartilage

Forms the framework of the outer ear.

Fibrocartilage

The shock absorbing pads between vertebrae.

Hyaline cartilage (ends of bones and nose)

Forms the flexible soft part of the nasal septum. Forms supporting rings of respiratory passages.