Python is an object-oriented programming (OOP) language, which means it supports the creation of objects that encapsulate data and behavior. OOP is a programming paradigm that focuses on the creation of classes and objects, which are used to organize and structure code. In Python, a class is a blueprint that defines the attributes and methods of an object. An object is an instance of a class that contains specific data and can perform specific functions. The principles of OOP, such as inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation, are fully supported in Python. Inheritance allows new classes to be derived from existing classes, which can save time and effort in code development. Polymorphism allows different classes to share the same method names, which makes code more flexible and reusable. Encapsulation allows data to be protected and hidden from other parts of the program, which enhances security and makes code easier to maintain. OOP is widely used in Python programming for a variety of applications, including web development, game development, and scientific computing.