Public API

Definitions

1. The set of functions, classes, endpoints, or interfaces that a library, module, or service explicitly exposes for external consumers to use, as opposed to internal implementation details. Changes to a public API require careful versioning (typically semver) since external code depends on its contract.

   In plain English: The official set of features a piece of software promises other programs can use and depend on.

   Example: "That helper is internal — don't import it directly. Only the functions re-exported from index.ts are the public API."

Related Terms

• Method Chaining
• Method Signature
• Plugin System
• Release Channel
• Schema Validation
• Patch Level
• Application Version
• Backward Compatible
• Build Number