{}, with each key separated from its value by a colon—for example: {"name": "Alice", "age": 25}. Keys must be unique and immutable (like strings or numbers), while values can be of any data type. Python dictionaries support a range of methods such as .get(), .keys(), .values(), and .items() for efficient data manipulation. They’re ideal for use cases like storing user profiles, configuration settings, and more. With dictionary comprehension, Python allows concise and readable ways to create and transform dictionaries. Overall, dictionaries are essential tools in any Python programmer’s toolkit for organizing and accessing data efficiently.