What is denoted by the tilde symbol (~) in Unix-like systems?

The tilde symbol (~) in Unix-like systems represents the user's home directory. This is a shorthand that allows users to quickly refer to their home directory without needing to type the full path. For instance, if a user’s username is "john," the home directory might be located at /home/john. By using the tilde, commands can be simplified, allowing users to write commands like cd ~ to easily navigate to their home directory regardless of their current working location.

Understanding this concept is crucial when dealing with file management and command-line tasks in Unix-like environments, as it facilitates easier navigation and file access.

Other options provide incorrect definitions: the current working directory refers to the directory the user is currently in, the root of the file system is denoted by a forward slash (/), and while temporary files can be referenced through various means, the tilde does not serve that purpose.