the higgs field is a field of energy that is thought to exist in every region of the universe. the field is accompanied by a fundamental particle known as the higgs boson, which is used by the field to continuously interact with other particles, such as the electron. particles that interact with the field are "given" mass and, in a similar fashion to an object passing through a treacle (or molasses), will become slower as they pass through it. the result of a particle "gaining" mass from the field is the prevention of its ability to travel at the speed of light.