A deployment refers to the process of distributing and installing software or applications in a specific environment, such as a server or cloud platform. This process ensures that the software is available for users and can function as intended. Deployments can occur in various stages, including development, testing, and production, each serving a different purpose in the software lifecycle. In the context of DevOps, deployments are often automated to streamline the process and reduce human error. Tools like Docker and Kubernetes are commonly used to manage these deployments, allowing for efficient scaling and management of applications across different environments.