What does DDL stand for in database management?

The term DDL stands for Data Definition Language in the context of database management. It refers to a subset of SQL (Structured Query Language) commands that are used to define and manage all structures in a database. This includes creating, altering, and deleting tables and schemas, as well as establishing relationships among those elements. DDL commands include statements such as CREATE, ALTER, and DROP.

By using DDL, database administrators can set up the database structure, create new tables, modify existing ones, and remove tables that are no longer needed. Understanding DDL is crucial for anyone involved in database design and management, as it lays the groundwork for how data is organized within the database.

The other options do not accurately describe DDL. "Database Design Language" implies a focus on the design aspect rather than the definition and management of the actual database structure. "Data Description Language" could suggest a language used to document data without including structural commands, which is not a standard term in database management. Similarly, "Data Development Language" does not correspond to any recognized technical terminology related to database structure definition.