The acronym HTML stands for HyperText Markup Language. It is the standard markup language used for creating web pages and web applications. HTML structures content on the internet by defining elements such as headings, paragraphs, images, and links, enabling browsers to render web pages correctly. HTML is the backbone of the web and is often used in conjunction with CSS and JavaScript to create visually appealing and interactive user experiences. Understanding HTML is fundamental for anyone involved in web development or digital content creation.