A shear wall is a structural element used in buildings to resist lateral forces, such as those caused by wind or earthquakes. Typically made of reinforced concrete or masonry, these walls provide stability and help prevent the building from swaying or collapsing during extreme conditions. Shear walls are strategically placed within a structure, often around stairwells or elevators, to maximize their effectiveness. By distributing the forces evenly, they enhance the overall strength of the building, making them a crucial component in the design of high-rise structures and other buildings in seismic zones.