A polygon mesh is a collection of vertices, edges, and faces that defines the shape of a 3D object in computer graphics. Each face is typically a polygon, often a triangle or quadrilateral, which connects the vertices to form the surface of the object. This structure allows for the representation of complex shapes and is widely used in various applications, including video games, animation, and 3D modeling. Polygon meshes can be manipulated and rendered using computer software, making them essential in fields like computer-aided design (CAD) and virtual reality (VR). They can also be textured and colored to enhance realism, contributing to the visual quality of digital scenes and characters.