# GraphQL

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/graphql
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a modern way for computers to talk to each other and share data. It lets a program ask for exactly the information it needs, and nothing more.

For teachers: an open-source data query and manipulation language for APIs, and a runtime for fulfilling those queries with existing data. It allows clients to define the structure of the required data, which can prevent over-fetching and under-fetching from the server.

## Examples

- The developer used GraphQL to fetch the user's profile data.
- By switching to GraphQL, the mobile app reduced its data usage because it only requested the specific fields needed for the display.
- Unlike traditional REST architectures that require multiple round-trips to various endpoints, GraphQL enables a single request to aggregate data from nested resources efficiently.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a proper noun in technical documentation; frequently functions as a modifier in phrases like 'GraphQL schema' or 'GraphQL query'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.