In agile methodology, a "user story" references a brief, simple description of a feature or functionality from the perspective of an end-user. It typically follows the format, "As a [type of user], I want [a goal] so that [reason]." User stories help teams understand user needs and prioritize features in product development. This format promotes communication between stakeholders and ensures alignment with business objectives. Additionally, user stories are often further defined through acceptance criteria, guiding the development and testing process.