API Design

GraphQL

/ˈɡræf kjuː el/

Definition

A query language for APIs where the client specifies exactly what data it needs, avoiding over- or under-fetching.

Example in context

"With GraphQL, the mobile app fetches only name and avatar — no unnecessary fields like the REST endpoint returned."

Related terms

Practice this term

Master GraphQL in context by working through exercises in the API Design module. You'll see the term used in real engineering scenarios with multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and matching drills.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "GraphQL" mean?

A query language for APIs where the client specifies exactly what data it needs, avoiding over- or under-fetching.

How do you pronounce "GraphQL"?

"GraphQL" is pronounced /ˈɡræf kjuː el/.

Can you use "GraphQL" in a sentence?

"With GraphQL, the mobile app fetches only name and avatar — no unnecessary fields like the REST endpoint returned."