# AI tool calling

URL: https://idukki.io/glossary/ai-tool-calling
Category: AEO and AI search
Also called: function calling, tool use

The mechanism by which an AI agent invokes a structured tool exposed via MCP or a similar protocol. Tools return JSON the model uses to compose its next action.

## Related terms

- [MCP (Model Context Protocol)](https://idukki.io/glossary/mcp)
- [Merchant MCP](https://idukki.io/glossary/merchant-mcp)
- [Agentic commerce](https://idukki.io/glossary/agentic-commerce)