ligament

noun2

1. •
   A band of strong tissue that connects bones to other bones.

   • It so chanced that at this juncture the decayed ligaments of the skeleton gave way, and the dry bones fell together in a heap, thus causing the dusty wreath of cypress to drop upon the table. — 1846
2. •
   (figurative) That which binds or acts as a ligament.

   • Justice is the ligament which holds civilized beings and civilized nations together. — 1845