Metadata

/ˈmɛtəˌdeɪtə/ noun

Definition

Metadata is data that describes other data, such as the author, date, and file size of a document or photo. It helps computers and people organize, search, and understand information more easily.

Etymology

From the prefix ‘meta-’ meaning ‘beyond’ or ‘about,’ and ‘data,’ meaning ‘facts or information.’ The term became common with the rise of digital files and databases in the late 20th century.

Kelly Says

Metadata is like the label on a jar: you don’t eat the label, but without it you might have no idea what’s inside. In big tech systems, there is often far more metadata flying around than the actual content itself.

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