Catmull-Rom splines are a type of smooth curve used in computer graphics and animation. They are defined by a set of control points, allowing for the creation of curves that pass through these points. This makes them particularly useful for modeling paths and shapes in a way that feels natural and fluid. These splines are a subset of cubic splines and are known for their ease of implementation and intuitive control. By adjusting the control points, users can easily manipulate the curve's shape, making Catmull-Rom splines popular in applications like 3D modeling and game development.