How is "API" defined in cloud computing?

In cloud computing, "API" stands for Application Programming Interface. This definition is fundamental as it emphasizes how APIs facilitate communication between different software applications. An API defines a set of rules and protocols that allow various software components to interact, enabling developers to leverage cloud services programmatically and integrate them into their applications seamlessly. This capacity is essential in cloud environments, where applications often need to interact with multiple services, platforms, and components to function correctly.

Considering the other options, while tools for managing cloud infrastructure and standards for cloud storage are important aspects of cloud computing, they do not capture the essence of what an API is or its specific role in enabling application communication. Similarly, methods for securing data transfer are critical for data protection but do not pertain directly to the fundamental definition of APIs. Thus, the correct choice highlights the core purpose of APIs within the cloud ecosystem.