What does the tilde (~) symbol represent in a Linux terminal?

The tilde (~) symbol in a Linux terminal is a shorthand notation that represents the current user's home directory. This is an important concept in Linux file management, allowing users to quickly reference their home directory without having to type out the full path. For example, if a user’s home directory is located at /home/username, they can simply use the tilde to refer to that directory by typing cd ~ to change to their home directory or to specify paths relative to it.

Understanding this notation is essential for navigating and managing files in a Linux operating system, as it streamlines command input and enhances usability, allowing users to work more efficiently within their environment.