callback
/ˈkɔːlˌbæk/
NOUN
1. A return to a previous state
The act or process of returning to a previous position, condition, or state.
1.1. Returning to a previous condition
A reversal or restoration in which a situation, condition, or system returns to an earlier state.
Synonyms
- reversal
- return
- restoration
- rollback
Examples
- The system experienced a callback to its previous operating state after the update failed.
- The economic recovery was followed by a callback to earlier market conditions.
Related Words
- reversion
- recovery
- regression
- reset
NOUN
2. A return telephone or radio call
A telephone or radio communication made in response to an earlier call, sometimes used automatically to authenticate access to a computer network.
2.1. Returning a telephone call
A telephone communication made to someone who previously attempted to contact the caller.
Synonyms
- return call
- phone call
- telephone call
Examples
- I received a callback from the customer service representative this afternoon.
- She promised to arrange a callback after checking the details.
Related Words
2.2. Network authentication callback
An authentication procedure in which a system automatically calls a previously registered telephone number to verify a user's identity or access permission.
Synonyms
- authentication call
- verification call
Examples
- The network uses a callback procedure to authenticate remote users.
- The administrator configured callback authentication for secure network access.
Related Words
- authentication
- verification
- access control
- computer network
- security
NOUN
3. A product recall
A request or action requiring a product to be returned because of a defect, malfunction, or safety concern.
3.1. Product safety recall
The withdrawal or return of a product from customers or the market because it may be defective or unsafe to use.
Synonyms
- product recall
- recall
Examples
- The manufacturer announced a callback after discovering a defect in the vehicle's braking system.
- Customers were notified about the product callback and instructed to return the affected items.
Related Words
- defect
- safety concern
- withdrawal
- replacement
- manufacturer
NOUN
4. A function passed as an argument
A function or reference to a function passed to another function so that it can be executed later, usually when a specified event or condition occurs.
4.1. Programming function callback
A function supplied as an argument to another function or operation, allowing the receiving code to execute it at an appropriate time.
Synonyms
- callback function
- function reference
- function pointer
Examples
- The JavaScript function accepts a callback to process the response after the request completes.
- The programmer passed a callback function to handle the button click event.
- Using callbacks allows an operation to execute additional code when a task finishes.
Related Words
- function
- argument
- event handler
- asynchronous programming
- higher-order function
- listener
NOUN
5. A second audition
A request for a performer to return for another audition or further evaluation after an initial audition.
5.1. Performing arts audition
An invitation for an actor, singer, or other performer to attend a subsequent audition after showing potential in the initial selection process.
Synonyms
- second audition
- follow-up audition
- recall audition
Examples
- After her first audition, the actress received a callback for the leading role.
- The casting director invited several performers to a callback later that week.
Related Words
- casting
- audition
- screen test
- performer
- casting director
NOUN
6. A reference to an earlier joke
A joke or humorous remark that refers to an earlier joke, event, or statement, often creating a connection between different parts of a comedy performance.
6.1. Recurring comedy joke
A humorous reference to an earlier joke or situation in the same comedy routine, performance, or narrative.
Synonyms
- running gag
- recurring joke
- comic reference
Examples
- The comedian used a callback to an earlier joke to make the audience laugh again.
- The final scene included a clever callback to the opening joke.
Related Words
- punchline
- comedy routine
- inside joke
- humor
- comic timing