An empty state is what a page shows when a list or section has nothing to display. It is like opening a new notebook: the blank space is expected, but a short note can explain what belongs there.
For example, an inbox with no messages might say “You’re all caught up.” If the person can create the first item, a button such as “Add a task” can show what to do next.
Tell people whether the section is empty because it is new, because a search found nothing, or because something needs attention. A blank area with no explanation can look like a broken page.