Meaning
Application Programming Interface; a set of defined rules that enable different software applications to communicate with each other.
Three examples from work
Integration
DevDoes the third-party logistics provider expose a REST API?
ArchitectYes, with full OpenAPI documentation and a sandbox environment.
Versioning
LeadWe must avoid breaking changes to our public API.
DevWe can version the new response structure under /v2/customers.
Client negotiation
ClientCan we fetch real-time analytics through your API?
Tech LeadYes, our API supports both webhooks and polling endpoints.
Pronounce each letter: 'A-P-I'. Essential vocabulary for integrations, cloud services, and full-stack software development.