What is the difference between an API , framework and middleware?

Question

Just Randomly got this question in my head! Whats the difference between API , Framework and middleware? Essentially all of them provide abstract low level services to apps. In

Answer 1

An API is a programatic interface to a system. You use it to interact with a system, but does not force any structure in your program (ideally).

A framework, dictates the way you write certain types of applications in order to reduce the amount of boilerplate needed. It solves some common problems for the applications of it's type.

Middleware is mostly marketing-speak. There are many definitions, but usually involve a big framework with some tooling built around it. Some commercial game engines can be thought of middleware, SOA platforms also are referred as middleware, etc.