What does the term 'depreciation' refer to in accounting?

The term 'depreciation' refers specifically to the reduction in the value of an asset over time due to factors such as wear and tear, usage, or obsolescence. It is a key concept in accounting that allows businesses to allocate the cost of a tangible asset over its useful life. This practice helps to accurately reflect the asset's value on the balance sheet and enables more accurate profit measurement in the income statement, as expenses related to the asset can be spread over multiple accounting periods. This systematic reduction ensures that the financial statements present a realistic picture of the company's financial health and performance. Therefore, this choice is a clear representation of what depreciation signifies in the realm of accounting.