Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Glossary

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GraphQL API

1 min read
Pronunciation
[graf-kyoo-el ay-pee-eye]
Analogy
Like ordering a custom sandwich by specifying each ingredient you want rather than choosing a fixed menu item.
Definition
A query language and runtime for APIs that allows clients to request exactly the data they need in a single request, reducing over‑ and under‑fetching compared to REST.
Key Points Intro
GraphQL APIs enable flexible, efficient data retrieval from blockchain indexers and services.
Key Points

Single endpoint: All queries and mutations go to one URL.

Typed schema: Defines object types, fields, and relationships.

Client-specified queries: Clients control shape and depth of returned data.

Introspection: Clients can discover schema and auto‑generate docs.

Example
A DeFi dashboard uses a GraphQL API to fetch user positions and token prices in one request, specifying exactly the fields needed for display.
Technical Deep Dive
GraphQL server implements resolvers that fetch from subgraphs (The Graph) or blockchain nodes. Queries are parsed into an AST, validated against schema, and executed by calling resolver functions, which may batch database or RPC calls via DataLoader.
Security Warning
Complex or deeply nested queries can cause denial‑of‑service; enforce query depth limits and cost analysis.
Caveat
Requires careful performance tuning; naive resolvers can lead to N+1 query problems.
Related Terms
Subgraph

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