The acronym "SQL" stands for Structured Query Language, a standardized programming language used for managing and manipulating relational databases. SQL enables users to create, read, update, and delete data within a database through a set of commands. It is instrumental for tasks such as querying data, creating database structures, and ensuring data integrity. SQL's widespread adoption is due to its ability to interact with various relational databases, such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle, making it indispensable for database administrators and data analysts.