Nonkeypath

Nonkeypath is a term encountered in some discussions of data modeling and query languages to describe a traversal or path through a data structure that does not rely on a primary key or other unique identifier to navigate. It is not a universally standardized concept, and its exact meaning can vary by domain or project.

In practice, nonkeypath may refer to expressions that follow attribute names, nested objects, or positional indices rather than using a key-based lookup. This contrasts with key-path concepts that explicitly traverse via known keys or identifiers. The term is sometimes used informally to highlight the distinction between paths that depend on unique keys and those that operate on non-key attributes or structural positions.

Contexts where nonkeypath might appear include document stores with hierarchical data, object graphs, or query languages that support flexible path expressions. In such environments, a nonkeypath emphasizes access patterns that do not presume the existence or use of a unique identifier to reach related data, focusing instead on the structural or attribute-based route to the target data.

Because nonkeypath is not widely standardized, practitioners should rely on the precise terminology of their specific system or language when describing traversal paths. When documenting or communicating about paths, it is advisable to clarify whether access relies on keys or is based on attributes, positions, or other non-key mechanisms to avoid confusion.

See also: key path, path expression, JSONPath, XPath, non-key attribute.