The term "90nm" refers to a semiconductor manufacturing process where the features of electronic components are built at a scale of 90 nanometers. This technology is significant in the production of integrated circuits, allowing for more transistors to fit on a single chip, which enhances performance and reduces power consumption. This process was widely used in the early 2000s and marked a transition in the industry towards smaller, more efficient chips. Companies like Intel and AMD adopted 90nm technology to improve their microprocessors, paving the way for advancements in computing power and energy efficiency.