In programming, a "kind" or "type" refers to a classification that defines the nature of a data item. It determines what kind of values a variable can hold and what operations can be performed on it. Common types include integer, string, and boolean, each serving different purposes in code. In everyday language, "kind" can also describe a category or group of similar things. For example, animals can be classified into kinds such as mammals, birds, and reptiles. Each kind shares specific characteristics that distinguish it from others.