Star Schema

Noun · Development

Definitions

  1. A dimensional modeling pattern where a central fact table (events, transactions) connects to multiple dimension tables (who, what, when, where) via foreign keys. Named because the diagram looks like a star. Optimized for analytical queries — simple JOINs, predictable performance, and intuitive for business users.

    In plain English: A database design where a central table of events (facts) connects to surrounding tables of descriptive data (dimensions) like a star.

    Example: "The sales star schema has a fact_orders table joining to dim_customer, dim_product, dim_date, and dim_store."

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