What "trad climbing" means in rock climbing

Trad climbing, short for "traditional climbing," is a type of rock climbing where climbers place their own protective gear into cracks or other features in the rock to anchor themselves as they climb. This is in contrast to sport climbing, where bolts that have been permanently drilled into the rock are used for protection. Trad climbing requires more skill and experience as the climber needs to assess the rock and select appropriate gear for protection, but it also allows for more flexibility and creativity in the climb.