In design, what is the purpose of using 'bleed'?

The purpose of using 'bleed' in design is to extend artwork or images to the very edge of the page. Bleed is a crucial element in print design, as it ensures that there are no unintentional white borders at the edges after the document is trimmed to its final size. When a design includes elements that reach the edges of the page, it creates a seamless look and prevents any misalignment during the printing process, which can happen due to slight variations in cutting. By incorporating bleed, designers provide a margin of safety, allowing for a more polished and professional-final product that meets industry standards for print materials.