DadgogoAI Dictionary

Dictionary entry

function calling

noun \ˈfəŋ(k)-shən ˈkȯ-liŋ\
TopicAgents & Tools First known use2023 Senses1
Advertisement

Definition of function calling

  1. : an API feature in which a model, instead of replying in plain text, outputs a structured request to run a specific function with specific arguments, which the developer's code then executes

    • Function calling lets the bot create calendar events directly.
    • We defined three functions: search_orders, refund, and escalate.

Origin & history

first known use2023

Introduced as an API feature by OpenAI in June 2023, then adopted across the industry.

Test yourself

Which of these is the meaning of function calling?

Related terms

tool use a model's ability to call external tools, such as a search engine, calculator, code runner, or… structured output model output that follows a fixed, machine-readable format such as JSON with specific fields… API application programming interface: a defined way for one program to send requests to another… MCP Model Context Protocol: an open standard for connecting AI applications to outside tools and…

Cite this entry

"Function calling." AI Dictionary, Dadgogo, https://dadgogo.com/dictionary/function-calling/. Accessed 4 Oct. 2026.

Dictionary entries near function calling

Advertisement