Answer: Metastore

The Unity Catalog object model organizes data in a hierarchy from metastore to table. The **Metastore** is the top-level container, managing metadata and permissions for data assets. Below it, **Catalogs** organize data assets, **Schemas** (or databases) contain tables and views, and **Tables** are the lowest level, storing data. Views are read-only projections of tables. Unity Catalog uses a three-level namespace (`catalog.schema.table`) for data reference. Metastores are configured with a root storage location in cloud storage for metadata and managed tables. Note: This is distinct from legacy Hive metastores in pre-Unity Catalog workspaces, which are accessible under the `hive_metastore` catalog.

Author: LeetQuiz Editorial Team