What does the term "tort" signify in law?

The term "tort" in law refers specifically to a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to an individual, resulting in legal liability for the person who commits the tortious act. This concept is fundamental in tort law, which aims to provide remedies to individuals harmed by the unlawful actions of others. Torts can cover a wide array of issues, including personal injury, negligence, defamation, and property damage, among others. The essence of a tort is that it is not necessarily a criminal act; rather, it is a breach of a duty that results in damage to another, falling within the realm of civil law rather than criminal law. This distinction is important because it highlights that tort law seeks to address private wrongs and provide compensation to victims rather than impose punishment as in criminal law.