An escalator is a moving staircase that helps people travel between different floors in buildings like shopping malls, airports, and train stations. It consists of a loop of stairs that continuously moves up or down, making it easier for people to transport themselves and their belongings without having to climb stairs. Escalators are powered by electric motors and are designed with safety features, such as handrails and emergency stop buttons. They are often found alongside elevators, which are another way to move between floors, but escalators are usually faster and more convenient for short distances.