Slashing is a term used in the context of blockchain technology, particularly in proof-of-stake (PoS) networks. It refers to the process of penalizing validators who act maliciously or fail to perform their duties correctly. When a validator is slashed, a portion of their staked cryptocurrency is forfeited, which helps maintain the integrity and security of the network. This mechanism discourages bad behavior by making it financially risky for validators to act dishonestly. Slashing is essential for ensuring that validators remain honest and reliable, ultimately contributing to the overall health and trustworthiness of the blockchain ecosystem.