In Python, decorators are a powerful design pattern that allows developers to modify the behavior of functions or classes without altering their original structure. Think of decorators as wrappers that add new functionality to existing code, similar to how gift wrapping enhances a present. They enable code reuse and can simplify repetitive tasks, making your code cleaner and more efficient. Decorators can be applied to functions or methods, and they are often used in frameworks like Flask and Django to enhance web applications. Understanding decorators is essential for mastering advanced Python programming techniques.