linkedTo

LinkedTo is a term used in data modeling and software design to denote a relationship from one entity to another. In many contexts it is used as the name of a field, property, or edge that points from a source object to a target object, typically representing a directed association.

In graph-based and linked data environments, linkedTo often represents an edge that connects two nodes. The edge can be single-valued (one target) or multi-valued (several targets). In RDF and similar frameworks, linkedTo can be expressed as an object property that links a subject to one or more objects. In object-oriented programming, a class may expose a linkedTo field that holds a reference to another object, or a collection of references in the multi-valued case.

Semantics of linkedTo are domain-dependent. It usually implies a directional relationship from source to target, but its exact meaning—such as dependency, reference, association, or navigation—depends on the surrounding data model and business rules. The relationship can be symmetric if reciprocal links are established, or it may be inherently asymmetric.

Common considerations when using linkedTo include naming consistency across a codebase, choosing between single or multiple targets, handling null or missing targets, and ensuring proper serialization and deserialization. Performance concerns may arise with deep or circular link chains, requiring lazy loading or pagination strategies.

See also: references, pointers, edges in graph data, foreign keys, related data.