sinew SIN-yoo noun WS #37

a piece of tough fibrous tissue uniting muscle to bone; a tendon or ligament; the source of strength or power; muscular strength or vigor

1. Traditional bow makers used animal sinew to create strong, flexible bowstrings for hunting and warfare.
2. His powerful sinews were clearly visible as he strained to lift the heavy weight above his head.
3. The butcher carefully removed every sinew from the meat to ensure it would be tender when cooked.
4. The sinew of the nation's economy depends on the hard work and innovation of its citizens.
5. The athlete's injury involved a torn sinew in her leg that required months of physical therapy to heal.