A distributed database is a type of database that is spread across multiple locations, which can be on different servers or even in different geographical areas. This setup allows data to be stored and accessed from various points, improving reliability and performance. Each part of the database can operate independently, making it easier to manage large amounts of data. In a distributed database, data is often replicated or partitioned to ensure consistency and availability. This means that if one part of the system fails, the rest can still function, minimizing downtime. Technologies like NoSQL and SQL databases often utilize distributed architectures to handle big data efficiently.