A loading indicator is a visual element used in user interfaces to show that a process is ongoing and the user should wait. It typically appears when data is being fetched, a page is loading, or an application is processing information. Common forms include spinning wheels, progress bars, or animated dots, which help manage user expectations during delays. These indicators are essential for enhancing user experience by providing feedback that something is happening in the background. Without a loading indicator, users might think the application has frozen or is unresponsive, leading to frustration. Properly designed loading indicators can improve overall satisfaction with the application or website.