A "locale" refers to a specific place or setting where events occur or where something is situated. It can describe a physical location, such as a city, neighborhood, or building, and is often used in literature, film, and other forms of storytelling to create a sense of atmosphere and context. In computing, a locale is a set of parameters that defines the user's language, region, and any special variant preferences. This can affect how data is presented, such as date formats, currency symbols, and sorting orders, ensuring that software applications cater to diverse user needs across different cultures.