avatar

Avatar is a term used to describe a representation of a person or their persona in a digital environment. The word derives from Sanskrit avatāra, meaning descent or incarnation, and in contemporary usage refers to an image, model, or virtual body that stands in for a user or character in online worlds, games, or simulations.

In computing and online communities, avatars can be two- or three-dimensional, animated or static, and highly customizable. They serve as visual identifiers, communicate status or role, and often support interaction within the environment. Avatars are central to many social platforms, multiplayer games, virtual reality environments, and forums.

Avatar also denotes a major film franchise initiated by James Cameron with the 2009 science fiction film Avatar. The film presents a human mission to the alien world Pandora, where humans use genetically engineered Na'vi-humanoid hybrids, called avatars, to interact with the indigenous population. The movie was notable for its use of cutting-edge motion capture and stereoscopic 3D technology and achieved significant box-office success, influencing later cinematic production and the development of sequels.

Beyond entertainment, the concept of avatars has influenced technology and culture by shaping ideas about virtual presence, telepresence, and identity management in digital spaces. The term is used across media, science, and online communities to describe any embodiment of a user in a non-physical or alternate form.