The GIF format, short for Graphics Interchange Format, is a popular image file format known for its ability to support both static and animated images. It uses lossless compression, which means that the quality of the image is preserved even after compression. GIFs are widely used on the internet for memes, short animations, and simple graphics due to their small file size and quick loading times. One of the key features of the GIF format is its support for a limited color palette of up to 256 colors, which makes it suitable for simple images but less ideal for complex photographs. Additionally, GIFs can loop animations, allowing for continuous playback, making them a favorite for social media and messaging platforms.