What does the line y=k-1/4a represent in y=a(x-h)^2+k, the standard form of equation for a parabola?

The line y=k-1/4a represent in y=a(x-h)^2+k is:
Directrix.
Directrix of a parabola--
A directrix is a line which is perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of a parabola and it does not touch the parabola.
Also, for the standard equation of the parabola i.e.
[tex]y=a(x-h)^2+k[/tex]
The equation of directrix of a parabola is given by:
[tex]y=k-\dfrac{1}{4a}[/tex]