Yield strength is a material property that indicates the maximum stress a material can withstand without undergoing permanent deformation. When a material is subjected to stress, it will initially deform elastically, meaning it can return to its original shape once the stress is removed. However, once the applied stress exceeds the yield strength, the material will begin to deform plastically, leading to permanent changes in shape. Understanding yield strength is crucial in engineering and construction, as it helps determine how materials will behave under various loads. For example, in designing structures like bridges or buildings, engineers must select materials with appropriate yield strengths to ensure safety and durability under expected loads.