Pairs refer to two items that are matched or grouped together because they share a common characteristic or purpose. Common examples include shoes, socks, and gloves, where each item in the pair complements the other. Pairs can also be found in various contexts, such as pairs of animals in nature, like birds or fish, which often form bonds for mating or social interaction. In mathematics, a pair can refer to two numbers or elements that are considered together, such as in an ordered pair like (x, y). This concept is essential in coordinate systems, where each point on a graph is represented by a pair of values. Pairs are fundamental in many areas, including science, art, and language, where they help to create balance and symmetry.