An API, or Application Programming Interface, is like a translator between different software applications.

It helps them talk to each other and share information. It's similar to how people use a common language to communicate and understand each other.
 

Imagine you have two apps on your phone. One app needs some specific information or wants to use a feature from the other app.

The API defines how they should talk to each other, what kind of information they can share, and how they should ask for things.

Overall, APIs make it possible for different apps or software systems to work together smoothly.

Just like translators or menus help people communicate and understand each other in different situations.