database

American  

[dey-tuh-beys] / ˈdeɪ təˌbeɪs /

Or data-base,

noun

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

2. data bank.

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database British  

/ 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

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database Scientific  

/ dā′tə-bās′,dăt′ə- /

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

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database Cultural  

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.

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Etymology

Origin of database

First recorded in 1965–70; data + base ¹

Explanation

A database is an organized body of information. Libraries have lots of databases to help you find books, articles, or information. Looking for some information? You might need to check a database, probably at the library or online. A database collects a bunch of information and resources, usually on a common subject. Some databases feature newspapers; others are related to legal issues. The police use databases to track criminals, and the government uses databases to track terrorists. Anywhere there's information being collected and accessed, there's probably a database keeping track of it all.

Example Sentences

A database maintained by University of Florida business professor Jay Ritter shows that the three-year average buy-and-hold return is negative for unprofitable companies after their IPOs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

And this week, PocketOS, software for car rental agencies, saw its entire customer database deleted by a Cursor AI coding agent, despite several commands and precautions that should have prevented it.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

A Level 4 decision, such as how to save a population of rare toads, might involve using the Conservation Evidence database that Sutherland created showing what works to protect species and habitats.

From Slate • Apr. 28, 2026

University of Texas quarterback Arch Manning has an NIL valuation of $5.4 million, for example, and Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has an NIL value of $4.2 million, according to database On3.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 23, 2026

It turns out the deceased civilians database has more information about the plagues than I guessed.

From "Legend" by Marie Lu