cURL
A command-line tool and library for transferring data using URL-based network protocols.
Plain English
A terminal tool often used to send HTTP requests and inspect responses.
In context
cURL is widely used to reproduce API calls test endpoints download resources and automate transfers with explicit headers methods and payloads.
Example
“The bug report includes a cURL command that reproduces the failing API request.”
When you'll hear this
- API development
- debugging
- technical documentation
Common misunderstanding
cURL is a client tool rather than an API specification or proof that an integration works in every runtime.
Also known as
curlcurl command
Commonly used by
Related terms
Updated: 2026-08-27
