Scripting languages are high-level programming languages that allow developers to quickly write and execute code, often used for automating tasks, data processing, and rapid prototyping. As a key tool for startups and developers, scripting languages like Python, Ruby, and JavaScript enable rapid development, flexibility, and ease of use, making them a popular choice for building scalable and efficient applications, from web development to data analysis and automation, and are an essential skill for tech professionals to master.