What does the term "tendon" refer to in anatomy?

The term "tendon" refers specifically to the connective tissue that links muscle to bone. Tendons are composed of dense connective tissue and play a crucial role in the musculoskeletal system by transmitting the force generated by muscles to the bones they attach to, thereby facilitating movement. When a muscle contracts, the tendon pulls on the bone, resulting in the movement of that bone at the joint.

In contrast, other options describe different anatomical structures or functions. A joint, for example, is where two or more bones meet, and while ligaments connect bone to bone and provide stability to joints, they serve a distinct purpose from tendons. Additionally, muscles are indeed responsible for movement, but they are not defined as tendons; rather, they are the active components that create movement through their contraction and interaction with tendons. Understanding these distinctions is vital for comprehending the overall mechanics of the musculoskeletal system.