What is the field in a table that holds the unique identifier of the table's records called?

The field in a table that holds the unique identifier for each record is referred to as a primary key. This key serves as a unique identifier for each entry, ensuring that no two records have the same value in that specific field. It is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the database and allows for efficient data retrieval and organization.

The concept of the primary key is fundamental in relational databases because it enables relationships between tables, ensuring that data can be accurately linked and referenced across different datasets.

While "key field," "primary field," and "unique ID" may convey similar meanings in certain contexts, they do not carry the same formal definition within the realm of database terminology. A primary key is distinct because it is explicitly defined to enforce the uniqueness constraint, which is vital for database normalization and integrity.