Specialized cells of like kind in the body are referred to as?

Specialized cells of like kind in the body are collectively referred to as tissues. Tissues are groups of cells that work together to perform a specific function. For example, muscle tissue consists of muscle cells that contract to facilitate movement, while nerve tissue is made up of neurons that transmit signals throughout the body.

This concept is foundational in anatomy and physiology, as it helps in understanding how various functions are carried out within the body. Tissues are further categorized into types, such as epithelial, muscular, connective, and nervous tissues, each serving distinct roles.

In contrast, organs are made up of different types of tissues working together to perform specific functions, while systems are composed of groups of organs that work together for complex functions in the body. Fibers, on the other hand, can refer to thread-like structures within tissues (like muscle fibers) but do not adequately describe the grouping of similar cells.