Graphic Design
The practice of visual communication through the coordinated use of typography, imagery, color, and composition.
In practice
Graphic design is the practice of communicating visually by combining type, images, color and composition into things such as posters, books, packaging, signs, websites and identities. It is purpose-driven: each piece has an audience and a job, such as selling a product, explaining a process or helping someone find a gate. A cereal box is graphic design that must inform, attract and meet labeling rules all at once.
Often confused with illustration
Illustration makes images; graphic design arranges type, images and color, including illustrations, into a piece that communicates a specific message.
Try this
Pick any package in your kitchen and list every job its graphic design is doing, from branding to instructions.