Meaning – The data dictionary is a centralised repository that contains information pertaining to the data, such as the name, relationship with other data, size of the data, meaning of the data and so on. Organisations around the world create such data dictionaries, as they prove helpful when there is a new pool of data to be analysed and the use of this dictionary ensures that the operation can be done in a timely and proper manner.
The data dictionary is not a static repository, as it can be edited and updated anytime. Everyday, people discover new facts about certain data elements, that can be added to the data dictionary to enhance the meaning of the corresponding data, and keep the dictionary up to date.
Example of data – “The employee was tasked with the study of the existing data dictionary within the organisation and update it with any new information that may be available.”