What is Endpoint? Meaning and examples

What is Endpoint?

Endpoint: A specific URL in an API where an operation can be performed. Each endpoint maps to a function or resource, such as /chat/completions or /embeddings, and accepts HTTP requests with defined parameters.

Updated on 11/10/2026 · By Marcelo Santiago

How it works

An endpoint is the combination of a URL and an HTTP method (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) that defines an operation in an API. It is the "address" where you send the request.

In AI APIs, the most common endpoints are: /chat/completions (generate text), /embeddings (generate embeddings), /images/generations (generate images) and /audio/transcriptions (transcribe audio). Each one accepts specific parameters and returns a defined response format.

The endpoint includes the base URL (e.g.: https://api.openai.com/v1) plus the resource path (e.g.: /chat/completions). The full URL is https://api.openai.com/v1/chat/completions.

Practical example

To call the OpenAI API and generate text, you make a POST to the endpoint https://api.openai.com/v1/chat/completions with a JSON body containing the model, the messages and the parameters. The response comes from the same endpoint, with the generated text.

If you use an SDK, the endpoint is called internally. If you use direct HTTP, you need to build the URL and headers manually. In both cases, the endpoint is the same.

What it's for

It serves as an access point to a specific functionality of an API. It allows developers to integrate AI services into their code in a predictable and documented way.

Difference between endpoint and API

The API is the complete set of endpoints, rules and authentication for a service. The endpoint is a specific point within that API. The API is the "restaurant"; the endpoint is the "table where you order".

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Frequently asked questions about Endpoint

Are an endpoint and a URL the same thing?

Almost. A URL is a generic address. An endpoint is a specific URL that performs an operation with a defined HTTP method. Every endpoint is a URL, but not every URL is an API endpoint.

Can I call an endpoint directly?

Yes, over HTTP with curl, fetch, requests. SDKs are just wrappers that call the endpoints internally. Calling directly gives you more control, but requires more code.

What is a streaming endpoint?

An endpoint that returns the response in parts, or chunks, as it is generated instead of waiting for the complete response. It reduces perceived latency and improves the user experience.