C-based languages are programming languages that are derived from or influenced by the original C language, which was developed in the early 1970s. These languages share similar syntax and structure, making them easier to learn for those familiar with C. Examples of C-based languages include C++, C#, and Java. These languages are widely used in software development due to their efficiency and control over system resources. They are commonly employed in various applications, from operating systems to game development, allowing programmers to write code that can run on different platforms with minimal changes.