Symbolic Link
In plain terms
A file that points to another file or directory.
Going deeper
A symbolic link (symlink) is a special file referencing another path, acting as a flexible shortcut. It redirects to a target location.
Under the hood
Unlike hard links, it can cross filesystems and point to directories, but breaks if the target moves.
Examples
ln -s, shortcuts, shared libraries, config redirection, cross-filesystem links.
Think of it like...
Like a signpost pointing to where the real thing is located.