# PL/pgSQL > procedural programming language for PostgreSQL database systems **Wikidata**: [Q2044345](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2044345) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PL/pgSQL) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/pl-pgsql ## Summary PL/pgSQL is a procedural programming language designed specifically for PostgreSQL database systems, allowing developers to write stored procedures and functions that combine SQL syntax with procedural logic. It was created in 1998 and is closely influenced by PL/SQL, the procedural language for Oracle databases. PL/pgSQL is a domain-specific language that extends PostgreSQL's functionality by enabling complex data processing within the database itself. ## Key Facts - PL/pgSQL is a procedural programming language developed for PostgreSQL, first released on October 30, 1998. - It is a domain-specific language designed to enhance PostgreSQL's capabilities by enabling stored procedures and functions. - PL/pgSQL is influenced by PL/SQL, the procedural language for Oracle databases, and shares similarities in syntax and functionality. - The language is part of the PostgreSQL ecosystem, which was first released in 1996. - PL/pgSQL is licensed under the PostgreSQL License and is available in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, and Chinese. - The official user manual for PL/pgSQL is available at [PostgreSQL's documentation](https://www.postgresql.org/docs/current/plpgsql.html). - PL/pgSQL is used primarily for writing stored procedures and functions within PostgreSQL databases. - The language supports procedural programming paradigms and is classified as both a procedural programming language and a domain-specific language. - PL/pgSQL is influenced by PL/SQL and another unspecified entity in its design and development. ## FAQs **What is PL/pgSQL used for?** PL/pgSQL is used to write stored procedures and functions within PostgreSQL databases, allowing developers to combine SQL syntax with procedural logic for complex data processing. **How does PL/pgSQL differ from PL/SQL?** While PL/pgSQL is designed for PostgreSQL, PL/SQL is specifically for Oracle databases. Both languages share procedural programming features but are tailored to their respective database systems. **Is PL/pgSQL free to use?** Yes, PL/pgSQL is free to use under the PostgreSQL License, which is an open-source license. **Can PL/pgSQL be used for real-time data processing?** Yes, PL/pgSQL can be used for real-time data processing within PostgreSQL databases, as it allows for the creation of stored procedures and functions that execute within the database environment. **What programming paradigms does PL/pgSQL support?** PL/pgSQL supports procedural programming, enabling developers to write structured, step-by-step logic for database operations. ## Why It Matters PL/pgSQL plays a crucial role in the PostgreSQL ecosystem by enabling developers to write complex database logic directly within the database. This reduces the need for application-level processing, improving performance and simplifying data management. By combining SQL with procedural programming, PL/pgSQL allows for more efficient and scalable database operations, making it an essential tool for developers working with PostgreSQL. Its influence on database programming has helped shape the way developers interact with relational databases, particularly in enterprise environments where stored procedures are commonly used. ## Notable For - PL/pgSQL was one of the first procedural languages designed specifically for PostgreSQL, enhancing its functionality beyond standard SQL. - It is influenced by PL/SQL, the procedural language for Oracle databases, which has shaped its syntax and procedural features. - PL/pgSQL is part of PostgreSQL's extensive documentation, with a dedicated user manual available in multiple languages. - The language supports procedural programming, allowing for structured and efficient database operations. - PL/pgSQL is licensed under the PostgreSQL License, making it freely available for use and modification. ## Body ### Overview PL/pgSQL is a procedural programming language developed for PostgreSQL, designed to extend the database's capabilities by allowing developers to write stored procedures and functions. It was first released on October 30, 1998, and is influenced by PL/SQL, the procedural language for Oracle databases. PL/pgSQL is a domain-specific language that supports procedural programming, enabling developers to combine SQL syntax with procedural logic for complex data processing within the database. ### History PL/pgSQL was created in 1998 as part of the PostgreSQL ecosystem, which was first released in 1996. The language was developed to enhance PostgreSQL's functionality by providing a way to write stored procedures and functions. Its design was influenced by PL/SQL, which has shaped its syntax and procedural features. PL/pgSQL has since become an essential tool for developers working with PostgreSQL, allowing for more efficient and scalable database operations. ### Features PL/pgSQL supports procedural programming, enabling developers to write structured, step-by-step logic for database operations. The language allows for the creation of stored procedures and functions, which can be executed within the database environment. This reduces the need for application-level processing, improving performance and simplifying data management. PL/pgSQL is licensed under the PostgreSQL License, making it freely available for use and modification. ### Influence and Relationships PL/pgSQL is influenced by PL/SQL, the procedural language for Oracle databases, and shares similarities in syntax and functionality. The language is part of the PostgreSQL ecosystem, which includes other technologies such as FRaunhofer Opensource SensorThings-Server and LiquidFeedback. PL/pgSQL is also related to domain-specific languages, which are specialized for particular application domains. ### Usage and Applications PL/pgSQL is used primarily for writing stored procedures and functions within PostgreSQL databases. It allows developers to combine SQL syntax with procedural logic, enabling complex data processing directly within the database. This approach improves performance and simplifies data management, making PL/pgSQL an essential tool for developers working with PostgreSQL. The language is available in multiple languages, including English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, and Chinese. ### Documentation and Resources The official user manual for PL/pgSQL is available at [PostgreSQL's documentation](https://www.postgresql.org/docs/current/plpgsql.html). The manual provides detailed information on the language's syntax, features, and best practices for use. PL/pgSQL is also referenced in various academic and technical resources, including Quora topics and Microsoft Academic ID (discontinued) references. The language is classified as both a procedural programming language and a domain-specific language, further emphasizing its specialized role in the PostgreSQL ecosystem. ## References 1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 2. Quora