Gristle is a _____

Hint: In order to answer the question, firstly we need to know about connective tissue and its classification. It is a type of tissue that connects and gives structure to different organs of the body. These are classified as connective tissue proper and specialized connective tissue. The connective tissue proper is further divided into loose and dense connective tissues.

Complete answer:
As it is already mentioned, connective tissue proper is divided into loose and dense connective tissue. Let us look at its further clarification. The loose connective tissue includes areolar, adipose and reticular tissues. The dense connective tissue is divided into dense regular, dense irregular and elastic tissue. The specialized connective tissue includes blood,bone and cartilage. We shall discuss the basics of specialised connective tissues. First comes the blood which is fluid connective tissue that plays an important role in transportation of nutrients to the cells. Bone is a strong and rigid substance that forms the skeletal system and gives structural framework to the body. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue which allows gliding movement and provides a smooth surface for articulation. The word gristle is also used to refer to cartilage. Gristle is a rubber substance usually found in meat and is similar to cartilage in its properties, hence named.

So, the answer is cartilage.

Note:
Cartilage is usually a flexible, thin tissue. It differs from bone in being softer and avascular i.e it is not supplied with blood. It is further divided into hyaline, fibrous and elastic cartilage. Cartilage is found at the nose tip, ear, and also in joints. It also enables the bones to rub against each other. When this cartilage loses its function, it can cause painful movement as in arthritis.