database

or da·ta-base, da·ta base

[ dey-tuh-beys ]

noun

1. a comprehensive collection of related data datum organized for convenient access, generally in a computer.
2. data bank.

database

/ ˈdeɪtəˌbeɪs /

noun

1. a systematized collection of data that can be accessed immediately and manipulated by a data-processing system for a specific purpose
2. informal.
   any large store of information

   a database of knowledge

database

/ dā′tə-bās′,dăt′ə- /

1. A collection of data arranged for ease and speed of search and retrieval by a computer.

database

1. A set of data grouped together in one location in (or accessible by) a computer . A computerized database has been likened to an electronic filing cabinet of information arranged for easy access or for a specific purpose.

Word History and Origins

Origin of database¹

First recorded in 1965–70; data + base ¹

Example Sentences

Sheriff’s Department — identified as Deputy 3 — repeatedly searched confidential law enforcement databases to get personal information about Zelocchi, his associates and their families.

From Los Angeles Times

The authors analyzed the collar data and quantified human recreation in the area using a global database of GPS-tracked activities that users opted to make public.

From Science Daily

Tuckerman and Galanakis verified the rules of Crystal Math using the Cambridge Crystal Data Centre, a database of hundreds of thousands of known organic molecular crystal structures.

From Science Daily

The database, called DeFlock, also provides users with the option to list who manufactured the cameras for greater transparency.

From Los Angeles Times

Tesla receives only a smattering of federal contracts, according to USAspending.gov, a database that tracks U.S. government spending.

From Los Angeles Times