The acronym "HTML" stands for HyperText Markup Language, which is the standard language used for creating and designing web pages. HTML structures the content on the web, allowing for the integration of text, images, and multimedia elements. It works in conjunction with CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and JavaScript to create dynamic, visually appealing web experiences. Understanding HTML is fundamental for web developers and designers as it lays the groundwork for creating interactive and accessible websites that can engage users effectively.