In a SQL Server Analysis Services (SSAS) database, a cube is the container for the objects and data that users query: dimensions, measure groups, KPIs, and perspectives. A cube is analogous to a schema in a relational database: it brings together the metadata, data, and code related to a subject area under a single umbrella. For example, an Analysis Services database might contain multiples cubes: one containing Sales data, another containing Financial planning data, and another containing HR data.
Cubes contain metadata describing measure groups and their relationship to dimensions. They also define storage for measure group data. They contain one or more MDX scripts where developers can add code to create calculated members or perform calculations on cube data. Developers can also create actions that enhance the user's experience by allowing users to open reports, drill through, or execute code based on the data the user is viewing.