Solidity is a high-level programming language designed for writing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It is statically typed, meaning that variable types are known at compile time, which helps catch errors early. Solidity is influenced by languages like JavaScript, Python, and C++, making it relatively easy for developers familiar with these languages to learn. Smart contracts written in Solidity can automate processes and enforce agreements without intermediaries. They are executed on the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), ensuring that the code runs consistently across all nodes in the network. This feature enhances security and trust in decentralized applications.