The term "big data" refers to vast volumes of data generated at high velocity and variety, which traditional data processing tools struggle to manage effectively. It encompasses structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data from various sources, including social media, sensors, and transactional systems. The significance of big data lies in its potential to reveal insights and trends that can drive decision-making and innovation. Organizations utilize advanced analytics and machine learning techniques to analyze big data, uncovering patterns and correlations that inform strategies. Big data plays a crucial role in areas like healthcare, finance, and marketing.