What is what does character development mean?

Character development refers to the gradual and deliberate process of shaping a character over time, through their actions, thoughts, and interactions with others. This process involves developing a character's personality, emotions, beliefs, motivations, and strengths and weaknesses. It is often a critical component of storytelling, particularly in novels, plays, and movies, where a character's growth and evolution is an important part of the narrative arc. Through character development, authors can create complex, nuanced characters that audiences can relate to, empathize with, and root for, making for a more immersive and engaging experience.