State-changing
PATCH HTTP Method
PATCH requests apply partial changes to a resource.
Meaning
The client sends a change document that partially modifies the target resource.
Common uses
Use PATCH when only part of a resource should change and the server supports the patch document format.
What to check
Check the patch media type, Accept-Patch support, validation errors, and conflict or precondition responses.
Example request
PATCH /articles/123 HTTP/1.1
Host: example.com
Content-Type: application/merge-patch+json
{"title":"Updated title"}Properties
- Safe
- No. This method can change server state.
- Idempotent
- No. Repeating the request can create another effect.
- Cacheable
- Only when the response explicitly allows it.
- Request body
- Usually yes
References
- Registry
- IANA HTTP Method Registry
- Guide
- MDN PATCH