Java is a high-level, object-oriented programming language known for its portability, scalability, and ease of use. It follows the principle of "write once, run anywhere," meaning that Java code can be executed on any platform that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) installed. This makes Java an ideal choice for building cross-platform applications, ranging from web applications to mobile apps and large-scale enterprise solutions. It features strong memory management, automatic garbage collection, and a robust standard library, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers. Java is widely used in various industries, particularly in software development, banking, and Android application development.