What does the term "responsive web design" refer to?

The term "responsive web design" refers to an approach that ensures web pages render well on various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This design methodology uses fluid grids, flexible images, and media queries to create a seamless user experience regardless of the screen size or resolution. The goal is to provide an optimal viewing experience—easy reading and navigation with minimal resizing, panning, and scrolling.

This adaptability is crucial because it allows a single website to adjust its layout and content dynamically based on the user's device, reducing the need for separate mobile versions of a site, which can be inefficient and cumbersome to maintain. By focusing on multiple factors, such as viewport size and orientation, responsive design enhances accessibility and usability across a wide range of devices, contributing to a cohesive user interface and experience.