GraphQL — Graph Query Language
Definition: An API query language that lets clients ask for exactly the fields they need in a single request — instead of multiple REST endpoints returning over- or under-fetched data.
Example
A mobile app fetching a user's profile, last 10 orders, and unread notifications can do it in one GraphQL query instead of three REST calls.
When you'll hear it
GraphQL shows up most often in engineering planning, architecture reviews, and sprint retrospectives. When someone uses it, they're usually referring to graph query language — and they expect the room to already know what that means.
FAQs
What does GraphQL stand for?
GraphQL stands for Graph Query Language.
What does GraphQL mean in technology and engineering?
An API query language that lets clients ask for exactly the fields they need in a single request — instead of multiple REST endpoints returning over- or under-fetched data.
Where will I hear GraphQL used at work?
GraphQL comes up most often in engineering planning, architecture reviews, and sprint retrospectives. It's used as shorthand for graph query language, so people assume you already know the term.
Related terms
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