# repository pattern

CEFR C2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/repository-pattern
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

a way of organizing computer code that separates how data is stored from how the rest of the program uses it. It acts like a middleman so the main program doesn't need to know if the data is in a database or a simple file.

For teachers: a design pattern that mediates between the domain and data mapping layers using a collection-like interface for accessing domain objects. It decouples the application logic from the specific implementation details of data persistence.

## Examples

- The developer used the repository pattern to manage user data.
- By implementing the repository pattern, the team was able to switch from a SQL database to a cloud-based storage system without changing the business logic.
- The repository pattern facilitates cleaner unit testing by allowing developers to swap out the actual database connection for a mock object that simulates data retrieval.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in object-oriented programming and enterprise software architecture.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.