(computer science) a computer file that is used as the authority in a given job and that is relatively permanent; main file
Microsoft Computer Dictionary
n. In a set of database files, the file containing more or less permanent descriptive information about the principal subjects of the database, summary data, and one or more critical key fields. For example, customers’ names, account numbers, addresses, and credit terms might be stored in a master file. See also master record. Compare transaction file.
