M
API Matrix

What3Words API

⭐ Beginner's Pick Geocoding / API Key Intermediate HTTPS
Varies by plan (check documentation)
87 Score
Grade A
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Overview

What3Words divides the world into 3m x 3m squares and assigns each a unique three-word address, making precise location sharing simple and memorable. The API converts between three-word addresses and GPS coordinates in both directions. It is popular for delivery apps, emergency services, and any scenario where exact location matters.

💡

Beginner Tip

Use the /convert-to-coordinates endpoint to turn a three-word address into lat/lng, or /convert-to-3wa to go the other direction. Always pass your API key as the key query parameter.

Available Data

word definitions
pronunciation
synonyms and antonyms
example sentences
part of speech

Example Response

JSON Response 
{
  "status": "success",
  "data": {
    "result": "Data from What3Words",
    "description": "Three words as rememberable and unique coordinates worldwide",
    "timestamp": "2025-01-15T10:00:00Z"
  }
}

Field Reference

words The three-word address in dot-separated format, e.g. filled.count.soap.
coordinates.lat Latitude of the center of the 3m x 3m square.
coordinates.lng Longitude of the center of the 3m x 3m square.
language Language code used for the three-word address.
map URL to a What3Words map showing the exact location.
square Bounding box coordinates of the 3m x 3m square (southwest and northeast corners).

Implementation Example 

const url = "https://what3words.com/";
// Replace headers or query params with the values required by this API.
const response = await fetch(url, {
  headers: {
  "X-API-Key": "YOUR_API_KEY"
  }
});
if (!response.ok) throw new Error(`Request failed: ${response.status}`);
const data = await response.json();
console.log(data);

What Can You Build?

Note: These code examples are AI-generated and unverified. Always refer to the official API documentation for accurate usage.

Common Errors & Troubleshooting

BadWords error The three words provided do not form a valid What3Words address.
✓ Ensure words are separated by dots (not spaces or commas) and all three words exist in the What3Words vocabulary.
401 Unauthorized The API key is missing or incorrect.
✓ Sign up at what3words.com/select-plan and pass your key as the key query parameter.
InvalidLanguage error The language parameter uses an unsupported locale code.
✓ Use a valid BCP47 language tag such as en, fr, or de. Check the supported languages list in the documentation.

Matrix Score Breakdown

🌐 Reachability 30/30
⚡ Speed 20/20
🔒 Security 15/15
🛠 Developer XP 12/20
✓ Reliability 10/15

Partially tested on Apr 5, 2026

Technical Specifications

Auth API Key
HTTPS REQUIRED
CORS UNKNOWN
Category Geocoding
Difficulty Intermediate
Verified: 2026-04-07

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