What does the phrase 'I plead the 5th' signify?

The phrase 'I plead the 5th' signifies that an individual is invoking their Fifth Amendment right, which protects against self-incrimination. This means that a person cannot be compelled to provide testimony or evidence that could potentially be used against them in a criminal case. The Fifth Amendment is a crucial aspect of the U.S. legal system, ensuring that individuals have the right to remain silent during legal proceedings without the fear of being punished for doing so. By pleading the Fifth, a person is asserting their right to safeguard against self-incrimination, which is a foundational principle of due process and individual rights in the United States.