A critically damped system is a type of dynamic system that returns to its equilibrium position as quickly as possible without oscillating. This behavior is important in various engineering applications, such as in the design of suspension systems and control systems, where overshooting can lead to instability or undesirable performance. In a critically damped system, the damping ratio is exactly one, which means the system has just enough resistance to prevent oscillations. This allows the system to settle down efficiently, making it ideal for applications like automotive brakes and electronic circuits, where rapid stabilization is crucial.