A "castaway" refers to a person who has been shipwrecked and stranded in an uninhabited place, often an island. These individuals typically find themselves in survival situations, relying on their resourcefulness to find food, water, and shelter. Castaways are often depicted in literature and film, highlighting their struggles and resilience. The term is commonly associated with stories like Robinson Crusoe, where the protagonist survives alone on a deserted island. Castaways may face various challenges, including harsh weather, limited resources, and isolation, which test their physical and mental endurance.