webhook
n.n. a way for one computer program to send information to another automatically when something happens. It is like a digital notification that tells a website to do something immediately after an event, such as a new payment.
n. an automated message sent from one application to another when a specific event occurs, typically delivered via an HTTP POST request. It enables real-time data synchronisation between disparate web services without constant polling.
The payment system uses a webhook to notify our server of new sales.
When a customer completes their purchase, a webhook triggers an automated email containing the download link for their software.
Developers often implement webhooks to facilitate seamless integration between third-party platforms, ensuring that internal databases update instantly whenever an external status change is detected.
A compound of web and hook, the latter referring to the programming technique of intercepting software messages. The term was coined by Jeff Lindsay in 2006.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Commonly used with verbs like 'trigger', 'fire', or 'set up'.
Last updated July 22, 2026