Why are callback functions called that?

Question

The reason for the name 'callback' eludes me. What does that term mean?

possible duplicate of [Callback functions in C/C++/C#](http://stackoverflow.com/questions/6183847/callback-functions-in-c-c-c) — jscs, May 01 '12 at 01:34
Also: [What is a callback function](http://stackoverflow.com/questions/824234/what-is-a-callback-function) — jscs, May 01 '12 at 01:36

score 4 · Answer 1 · answered May 01 '12 at 00:47

4

Because it provides a mechanism for a library to call back into your code.

answered May 01 '12 at 00:47

score 2 · Answer 2 · answered May 01 '12 at 00:48

2

Callbacks are called that because when you give something a callback, you enable it to "call back" into your code at a later time.

answered May 01 '12 at 00:48

Gareth McCaughan

2 Answers2