Software Development

API

Also known as: Application Programming Interface

Quick Definition

An API (Application Programming Interface) is a defined contract that lets one software system talk to another.

Expanded Explanation

An API is a defined set of requests and responses that lets software systems communicate. Modern APIs are typically HTTP/JSON services used to connect front-end apps, backend systems and third-party providers.

Simple Examples

  • A weather app calling a weather service's API.
  • A checkout page calling Stripe's API to charge a card.
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