Plain-English definition

API key

What it means

An API key is a secret code that identifies your app when it connects to another service, proving the request really comes from you. You keep it private, because anyone who has it can act on your behalf.

In plain terms

Like a personalized wristband at a festival: it proves you're the one allowed through the gate, so you keep it on your wrist and don't hand it to strangers.

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