The Java classloader is a mechanism that allows Java applications to dynamically load classes from different sources. It is responsible for loading class files from the file system, network, or other sources, and then linking the classes into the running Java application.
An example of the Java classloader in action is when a web application is deployed to a Java application server. The classloader is responsible for loading the application classes and any dependent libraries into the application’s classpath. The classloader then links the classes together, allowing the application to run.