Absolute velocity refers to the speed of an object in relation to a fixed point or reference frame, typically considered to be at rest. This concept is crucial in physics, as it helps to understand how fast an object is moving without the influence of other moving objects. For example, if a car is traveling at 60 miles per hour on a highway, its absolute velocity is measured against the ground. In contrast to relative velocity, which considers the motion of one object in relation to another, absolute velocity provides a clearer picture of an object's movement. This measurement is essential in various fields, including astronomy, where the absolute velocity of celestial bodies is calculated to understand their motion in the universe.