Word
callback
Phoneticscall·back, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkɔɫˌbæk/
UK/kˈɔːlbæk/
Countable noun
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.
Examples
“The program uses a callback to show a message after the file downloads.”
“When the user clicks the button, the browser triggers a callback function to update the screen.”
“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.”
Examples
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.
Real-World Examples
“It’s a callback to moments, exchanges and references that fans have come to know by heart.” “There’s nothing wrong with that, but it’s sort of funny to me to still include callbacks to an OS version so old that it predates the M1.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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