AI dictionary

Capability Token

A credential that encodes exactly what an agent may do, often including allowed tools, targets, budgets, expiry, and delegation limits.

Plain English

It is a narrow permission slip for one agent task instead of a broad API key.

Example

A refund agent receives a token that allows `refund.write` up to $50 for one customer and expires after the workflow ends.

Why it matters

Capability tokens reduce ambient authority and give teams evidence for who authorized each tool-mediated action.