The spelling of "linked table" is quite straight-forward. The first word, "linked" is spelled /lɪŋkt/, with the "li" pronounced as /lɪ/ and the "n" and "k" blended together smoothly as /ŋkt/. The second word, "table" is spelled /teɪbəl/, with the "t" and "a" pronounced separately as /teɪ/, followed by the long "e" sound as /bəl/. When combined, these two words create a common database term used to describe the connection between two tables within a system.
A linked table refers to a type of database table that is connected or linked to another table through a common field or key. It enables the establishment of relationships between multiple tables within a database system.
The primary purpose of a linked table is to provide a way to combine and retrieve information from various tables based on the relationship defined between them. By linking tables, data can be effectively organized and accessed using database management systems.
To create a linked table, a relation is established between two tables using a key field that exists in both tables. This key field serves as a unique identifier and allows the database system to join the records of these tables together. When a linked table is accessed, the database management system can fetch related data from multiple tables based on the established links.
Linked tables are commonly used when designing and managing larger databases with numerous tables, as it helps to maintain data integrity and ensures that data is properly organized and connected. This approach facilitates efficient data retrieval and analysis, as it allows users to perform complex queries and retrieve information from related tables in a structured manner.
Overall, a linked table is a key element in relational database management systems that allows for the establishment of connections and relationships between tables, enabling the efficient storage and retrieval of interconnected data.
The etymology of the word "linked table" can be understood by examining the origin of its individual components:
1. Linked: The word "linked" comes from the Old English word "hlencan" which means "to join or connect together". It is related to the Old Norse word "hlekkr" and the Middle Dutch word "linge", both of which also mean "link" or "chain".
2. Table: The word "table" is derived from the Latin word "tabula", meaning "a flat board or slab". It has roots in the Old English word "tabule", which referred to a writing tablet or board, and also in the Greek word "tabla", which means "a board or plank".
Therefore, when combined, the term "linked table" denotes a table (in the technological context) that is connected or associated with another table, forming a link or connection between them.