A graph database is a type of NoSQL database that uses graph structures to store, manage, and query related data, represented as nodes (or vertices), edges, and properties. Nodes represent entities, while edges denote the relationships between them. Properties define characteristics or attributes associated with the nodes and edges. These elements form a graph, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of complex, interconnected datasets.
For instance, a social media platform like Facebook could use a graph database to store information about users, their connections, and the posts they share. The nodes in this graph would represent individual users, while the edges would represent the relationships between them (e.g., friendships or followership). Properties could include information like the user’s name, profile picture, and post history.