Elliptical galaxies are a type of galaxy that has a smooth, ellipsoidal shape. They are characterized by their lack of distinctive features such as spiral arms or a central bulge like in other types of galaxies. Elliptical galaxies contain mostly older stars and have low levels of star formation compared to other types of galaxies. Their distribution of stars is more uniform than that found in spirals, with no concentration towards the center or along any particular plane. The origin of elliptical galaxies remains a topic of debate among astronomers, but they are believed to form through mergers and interactions between galaxies over time.