Indeed it is a database term, been around since Peter Chen developed ER modelling in the 1970s. BTW: Chen says he was inspired by Bachmann's work - Codd came later.
Historically, composite attribute (column) has had a very specific meaning - a grouping of simple columns (attributes) into an composite attribute, classic example is an address = house no + street + suburb + postcode; like a composite materai is a substance made up of various simple materials - e.g. concrete = cement + sand + gravel + water.
Wouldn't be surprised if it's been redefined since.
Last edited by BetterRed; 03-08-2023 at 01:08 AM.
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