An array is a fundamental data structure used in programming to store multiple elements of the same type in a contiguous block of memory. Arrays allow for efficient data management and retrieval, enabling programmers to organize and manipulate collections of data with ease. Each element in an array is accessed via its index, allowing for quick and random access. Arrays are widely used in various applications, from simple tasks like storing lists of numbers or strings to complex operations in algorithms and data processing. Understanding arrays is essential for efficient coding and problem-solving in computer science.