attribut

An attribute, in general, is a property or characteristic that describes an object, person, or concept. The term is used across disciplines to identify features that can distinguish or classify entities. In German, the word Attribut corresponds to the same idea and is commonly used in grammar and technical fields.

In linguistics, an attribute is a modifier that accompanies a noun to specify it, often called an attributive modifier. In many languages, attributive adjectives sit close to the noun, as in roter Apfel. Attributive elements contrast with predicative adjectives, which occur after a linking verb (The apple is red).

In philosophy and logic, attributes are properties or predicates that can be ascribed to objects. They allow statements about things, such as “The apple is red.” Some discussions distinguish essential attributes (defining the object) from accidental ones (non-essential properties).

In computer science and information systems, an attribute is a data item describing an entity. In databases, attributes correspond to table columns; each attribute has a domain or type and may have constraints. In object-oriented programming, attributes (or fields) hold data about an object.

Terminology notes: In German technical usage, Attribut is common, but “Eigenschaft” is also used for general property. The English term “attribute” is closely related, with broader uses in database design, ontology, and software engineering. The concept remains a fundamental way to represent information about entities.