ENGLISH
REFERENCE

callback

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɔɫˌbæk// UK //kˈɔːlbæk// call·back Business Programming Theater
Definition

n. A piece of code you give to a program to run later, usually after it finishes a specific job or when something special happens.

n. A function passed as an argument to another function, intended to be executed after a specific event occurs or an asynchronous task completes. This allows for non-blocking code execution.


SIMPLE

The program uses a callback to show a message after the file downloads.

CONTEXTUAL

When the user clicks the button, the browser triggers a callback function to update the screen.

COMPLEX

By passing a callback into the data request, the developer ensures the interface only refreshes once the server responds, though you might also hear the term used for a return phone call.

Usage

Commonly used in the context of recruitment, performing arts, and telecommunications.

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