COMPOUND KEY Meaning and
Definition
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A compound key refers to a method of combining multiple fields or attributes within a database table in order to uniquely identify a record or row. It is a combination of two or more keys that, when combined, create a new key that ensures the uniqueness of each record in a table.
In database management systems, a key is a field or attribute within a table that is used to identify or access specific records. A compound key, also known as a composite key, is created by combining two or more of these individual keys to form a new key that uniquely identifies a record. This is particularly useful when a single key by itself may not provide enough uniqueness or when multiple fields are required to identify a record.
The compound key is formed by concatenating the values of each individual key together. For example, in a table that stores customer information, a compound key could be created by combining the customer's first name and last name fields.
The advantages of using a compound key include increased data integrity and accuracy, as it ensures that each record is uniquely identified. It also allows for more flexibility in organizing data and enforcing specific data constraints. However, it may also introduce complexity and make data retrieval and manipulation more cumbersome.
Overall, a compound key is a powerful tool in database management systems that allows for a more robust and accurate representation of data within a table.
Common Misspellings for COMPOUND KEY
- xompound key
- vompound key
- fompound key
- dompound key
- cimpound key
- ckmpound key
- clmpound key
- cpmpound key
- c0mpound key
- c9mpound key
- conpound key
- cokpound key
- cojpound key
- comoound key
- comlound key
- com-ound key
- com0ound key
- compiund key
- compkund key
- complund key
Etymology of COMPOUND KEY
The etymology of the term "compound key" can be understood by examining the origins of its constituent words.
1. Compound: The word "compound" originates from the Latin term "componere", which means "to put together" or "to mix". It was originally used to describe the act of combining different elements or parts to form a whole.
2. Key: The word "key" has multiple origins. One of the primary sources is the Old English word "cǣg" which referred to a device used to unlock or lock something. It is also related to the Old High German word "kagi", meaning "key", and the Old Norse word "kaugr", meaning "hook".
In the context of databases and computer science, a key is a field or set of fields used to uniquely identify a record within a table.
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