Zener diodes are used in electronics to create reference voltages. A zener diode has a specific property, namely "breaking" the diode function at a maximum voltage. After this maximum voltage (Zener voltage), the diode also allows voltage to pass in the reverse direction, so that it can be used as overvoltage protection.
A diode is an electronic component that conducts electrical current very well in one direction, but practically not the other. As a result, a diode often functions as reverse polarity protection.