A collective noun is a word that refers to a group of individuals or things as a single unit. For example, the term flock describes a group of birds, while team refers to a group of players. Collective nouns help simplify language by allowing us to talk about multiple items or beings without listing each one individually. These nouns can be used for various categories, including animals, people, and objects. Common examples include herd for a group of cattle, class for a group of students, and bunch for a group of grapes. Understanding collective nouns enhances communication by providing clarity and conciseness.