endpoint
Pronunciation: END-point
A specific URL at which an API receives requests and returns responses, representing a single, named interaction point in the API surface.
Full Definition
In web APIs, an endpoint is a unique combination of an HTTP method (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, etc.) and a URL path that defines a discrete operation (for example, GET /users/{id} retrieves a user record). Endpoints are the core unit of API reference documentation. Editors should note that 'endpoint' is one word and lowercase. It should not be used interchangeably with 'URL' or 'route', as these have subtly different scopes. In REST architecture, a well-designed endpoint represents a resource or an action on a resource.
Usage
Usage note: One word, lowercase. Do not use 'URL' and 'endpoint' interchangeably; an endpoint is specifically an API interaction point defined by method + path.
In Context
- "The DELETE /orders/{orderId} endpoint permanently removes the specified order." — REST API reference
- "Rate limits apply per endpoint, not per API key." — API usage policy document