A database record is commonly referred to as a database segment. A database segment in IMS DB represents a logical grouping of related data elements or fields that are organized hierarchically within the database.

Here's how a database segment in IMS DB corresponds to the concept of a database record:

Unit of Data : Like a database record, a database segment is a fundamental unit of data storage and retrieval within IMS DB. It encapsulates all the information related to a specific entity or entity instance.

Attributes or Fields : A database segment contains individual data elements called attributes or fields. These attributes represent specific pieces of information about the entity being modeled, similar to fields in a database record.

Single Entity Instance : Each database segment in IMS DB typically represents a single instance or occurrence of an entity within the hierarchical database structure. For example, a customer segment might contain data fields such as customer ID, name, address, and phone number, representing information about a specific customer entity.

Structured Format : Database segments in IMS DB are organized in a structured format, with predefined fields and data types. This structure facilitates efficient data storage, retrieval, and manipulation within the hierarchical database environment.

Unique Identifier : Similar to a database record, each database segment in IMS DB may be assigned a unique identifier to distinguish it from other segments within the database. This identifier helps ensure data integrity and provides a means for referencing and retrieving specific segments.