Terraform state
A practical DevOps definition, with an example you can use.
Data Terraform uses to associate configured resources with real objects and track information about them.
An example you can picture
Terraform uses state to connect a resource address in configuration to a specific cloud resource. A shared backend can let a team coordinate access.
The distinction that matters
State can contain sensitive information. Protect it, avoid committing it to a public repository, and use supported state operations instead of editing it casually.
Put it into practice
In a disposable Terraform project, identify the backend and the resource addresses recorded in state. Explain who should be able to read or modify that data. Keep state files out of public project evidence.
Connect the ideas: infrastructure as code and secret. For the bigger picture, read the related learning guide.
Reference
Read the primary documentation for the underlying concept and further detail.