schema

noun

sche·​ma ˈskē-mə 

plural schemata ˈskē-mə-tə  also schemas

1

: a diagrammatic presentation

broadly : a structured framework or plan : outline

2

: a mental codification of experience that includes a particular organized way of perceiving cognitively and responding to a complex situation or set of stimuli

Examples of schema in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Database administrators will use it to optimize queries and automate the generation of schema and scripts. —Bernard Marr, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

Organizations should use schema management tools (such as Apache Avro), enforce versioning, validate changes before deployment, and keep stakeholders informed to ensure smooth data flow. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

One of the front-runners for the short list of Turing test alternatives is the Winograd schema challenge. —IEEE Spectrum, 19 Jan. 2015

Despite varying environments, the challenges—data engineering, schema mapping and testing against baselines—are consistent. —Michael Roytman, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek schēmat-, schēma

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

schema

noun

sche·​ma ˈskē-mə 

plural schemata -mət-ə  also schemas

1

: a nonconscious adjustment of the brain to the afferent impulses indicative of bodily posture that is a prerequisite of appropriate bodily movement and of spatial perception

2

: the organization of experience in the mind or brain that includes a particular organized way of perceiving cognitively and responding to a complex situation or set of stimuli