Content-based image retrieval (CBIR) is a technology that allows users to search for images based on their visual content rather than metadata or keywords. It analyzes the actual features of images, such as colors, shapes, and textures, to find similar images in a database. This method is useful in various fields, including medical imaging, digital libraries, and e-commerce, where users may want to find images that resemble a specific example. By using algorithms to compare visual elements, CBIR enhances the efficiency and accuracy of image searches.