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Data lineage refers to the process of tracking the movement and transformation of data as it passes through a pipeline from its origin to its final destination. This involves capturing the various stages of data processing, including its sources, how it has been altered or modified, and where it is used within the organization or system. Data lineage is crucial for understanding data flows and dependencies, ensuring data quality, compliance, and aiding in debugging and operational management.

While storage methods, visualization of data formats, and classification of data types are important aspects of data management, they do not capture the essence of tracking data as it moves and evolves through different processes and systems. Thus, the term data lineage specifically emphasizes the journey of data across a pipeline, highlighting its flow and transformations rather than other attributes such as where it is stored or how it is classified.