Object creation refers to the process of defining and instantiating objects in programming. An object is a self-contained unit that combines data and functions, allowing for organized and modular code. In many programming languages, such as Java or Python, objects are created from templates called classes, which outline the properties and behaviors that the objects will have. When an object is created, it is often referred to as an instance of a class. This instance can then be manipulated through its methods and properties. Object creation is fundamental in object-oriented programming (OOP), as it promotes code reusability and helps manage complexity in software development.