Aggregates are materials made up of smaller particles that are combined to form a larger whole. Common examples include sand, gravel, and crushed stone, which are often used in construction. These materials provide strength and stability to structures like roads, bridges, and buildings. In the context of data, aggregates refer to the process of summarizing or combining information to provide insights. For instance, when analyzing sales data, businesses might look at total sales figures or average sales per month. This helps them understand trends and make informed decisions about their operations, similar to how aggregates in construction support physical structures.