Application Programming Interface

API

noun (acronym) /ˌeɪ.piːˈaɪ/

A set of rules that allows different software systems to communicate with each other. Think of it as a menu in a restaurant — it tells you what you can order, how to order it, and what you will get back.

"The payment service exposes a REST API that the frontend calls to process transactions."

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "API" mean in IT?

A set of rules that allows different software systems to communicate with each other. Think of it as a menu in a restaurant — it tells you what you can order, how to order it, and what you will get back.

What does API stand for?

API stands for "Application Programming Interface".

How do you pronounce "API"?

"API" is pronounced /ˌeɪ.piːˈaɪ/. Use the "Listen" button above to hear it spoken aloud.