A text field is a user interface element that allows users to input text data. It is commonly found in forms on websites and applications, enabling users to enter information such as names, addresses, or comments. Text fields can vary in size and may have specific formatting requirements, such as character limits. Text fields can be single-line or multi-line, depending on the amount of text needed. They often include features like placeholder text, which provides a hint about what to enter, and validation checks to ensure the input meets certain criteria. This makes them essential for collecting user information efficiently.