In programming, what does the term "debugging" refer to?

The term "debugging" specifically refers to the process of identifying, isolating, and correcting defects or errors in computer programs. This is a crucial part of software development since errors can cause programs to behave unexpectedly or fail to execute altogether. Debugging usually involves using various tools and techniques to track down the source of the problem, such as debugging software or inserting print statements to examine the program's flow and variable states at different stages of execution.

While writing complex algorithms, creating documentation, and reviewing code for aesthetics are important aspects of programming, they do not directly relate to the act of finding and fixing bugs within the code. Debugging focuses solely on enhancing the correctness and performance of a program by addressing its underlying errors.