HyperText Markup Language, commonly known as HTML, is the standard language used to create and design web pages. It uses a system of tags and attributes to structure content, allowing browsers to display text, images, links, and other multimedia elements. HTML is essential for web development, as it provides the basic framework for websites. By using various tags, developers can define headings, paragraphs, lists, and more, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with online content. Understanding HTML is fundamental for anyone interested in building or maintaining websites.