Languages are one of the most fascinating and core aspects of human culture and understanding. The scientific look at one's own language, a lot of other languages and forms of communication other living beings as well, is an interesting area to study.
Where did languages come from? Why are they so different? Do they have much in common? What is the relationship between our languages and our ways of thinking, feeling, and living? How do languages impact the society around us?
Linguistics studies these questions in depth
Ok, we are done with the (dry?) universally present definitions of Linguistics.
arizona.edu - What's Linguistics and why study it?
cambridgecoaching.com - Intro to branches of Linguistics
thoughtco.com - What is a Linguist?
linguisticsociety.org - What is Linguistics?
sil.org - What is Linguistics?
slate.com - Popular present ideas as a metaphor for linguistics