Fixed-width refers to a type of formatting where each character or space occupies the same amount of horizontal space. This uniformity makes it easier to align text and data in tables or code, as each line appears consistent. Commonly used in programming and text editors, fixed-width fonts, like Courier New, help maintain structure and readability. In contrast to variable-width fonts, where characters can have different widths, fixed-width is particularly useful in contexts like ASCII art or data visualization. It ensures that elements line up correctly, making it easier to read and interpret information without confusion.