The term 'fillers' refers to speech sounds like 'um' and 'uh' that speakers often use when they are thinking or unsure of what to say next. These sounds do not add any meaning to the conversation and can distract listeners from the main message. Understanding fillers is important for effective communication, as they can indicate hesitation or uncertainty. By recognizing and minimizing the use of fillers, speakers can enhance clarity and maintain the listener's focus on the content of their speech.