What does DDL stand for in database terminology?

DDL stands for Data Definition Language, which is a category of SQL commands used to define and manage all database objects. This includes the creation and modification of tables, indexes, views, and schemas within a database. DDL commands typically involve operations such as CREATE, ALTER, and DROP, which establish the structure of the database and enforce the relationships between different data entities.

Understanding DDL is essential for database administration, as it plays a crucial role in the lifecycle management of database objects. By using DDL, database administrators can ensure that the database is organized, structured, and suitable for efficient data storage and retrieval.

This definition clarifies why DDL is focused on structuring the database itself, rather than dealing with data manipulation or delivery aspects, which are covered by other SQL categories such as DML (Data Manipulation Language).