codebook

data dictionary
codebook

   <database> A data structure that stores {meta-data}, i.e. data
   about {data}.  The term "data dictionary" has several uses.

   Most generally it is a set of {data descriptions} that
   can be shared by several applications.

   Usually it means a {table} in a {database} that stores the
   names, {field} {types}, length, and other characteristics of
   the fields in the database tables.

   An active data dictionary is automatically updated as changes
   occur in the database.  A passive data dictionary must be
   manually updated.

   In a {DBMS}, this functionality is performed by the {system
   catalog}.  The data dictionary is a more general software
   utility used by designers, users, and administrators for
   {information resource management}.

   The data dictionary may maintain information on system
   hardware, software, documentation, users, and other aspects.

   Data dictionaries are also used to document the database
   design process itself and can accumulate meta-data
   ready to feed into the system catalog.

   [Does anybody call them "codebooks"?]

   (2001-04-24)