# Attributes

In Trilium, attributes are key-value pairs assigned to notes, providing additional metadata or functionality. There are two primary types of attributes: 1. Labels can be used for a variety of purposes, such as storing metadata or configuring the behavior of notes. Labels are also searchable, enhancing note retrieval. For more information, including predefined labels, see Labels. 2. Relations define connections between notes, similar to links. These can be used for metadata and scripting purposes. For more information, including a list of predefined relations, see Relations. These attributes play a crucial role in organizing, categorizing, and enhancing the functionality of notes. ## Types of attributes Conceptually there are two types of attributes (applying to both labels and relations): 1. **System attributes** As the name suggest, these attributes have a special meaning since they are interpreted by Trilium. For example the `color` attribute will change the color of the note as displayed in the Note Tree and links, and `iconClass` will change the icon of a note. 2. **User-defined attributes** These are free-form labels or relations that can be used by the user. They can be used purely for categorization purposes (especially if combined with Search), or they can be given meaning through the use of Scripting. In practice, Trilium makes no direct distinction of whether an attribute is a system one or a user-defined one. A label or relation is considered a system attribute if it matches one of the built-in names (e.g. like the aforementioned `iconClass`). Keep this in mind when creating Promoted Attributes in order not to accidentally alter a system attribute (unless intended). ## Viewing the list of attributes Both the labels and relations for the current note are displayed in the _Owned Attributes_ section of the Ribbon, where they can be viewed and edited. Inherited attributes are displayed in the _Inherited Attributes_ section of the ribbon, where they can only be viewed. In the list of attributes, labels are prefixed with the `#` character whereas relations are prefixed with the `~` character. ## Attribute Definitions and Promoted Attributes Promoted Attributes create a form-like editing experience for attributes, which makes it easy to enhancing the organization and management of attributes ## Multiplicity Attributes in Trilium can be "multi-valued", meaning multiple attributes with the same name can co-exist. This can be combined with Promoted Attributes to easily add them. ## Attribute Inheritance Trilium supports attribute inheritance, allowing child notes to inherit attributes from their parents. For more information, see Attribute Inheritance.