Definition

1. Noun:
   • A request to return: A callback is an official request, typically made by a manufacturer or company, for a product to be sent back, usually because it is defective, unsafe, or needs modification.
   • A follow-up contact: In business and customer service, a callback is an instance of someone, such as a representative, returning a telephone call to a customer or client.
   • A return to perform: In entertainment, a callback is a follow-up audition where a performer is asked to return for further evaluation.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Product Recall):

  • The car company issued a callback for vehicles with faulty airbags.
  • There was a major callback of the toy due to a choking hazard.

• Noun (Telephone Return):

  • I left a message and am waiting for a callback from the support team.
  • The system promises a customer service callback within 24 hours.

• Noun (Audition):

  • She was thrilled to get a callback for the lead role in the musical.
  • Only a few actors from the first audition received a callback.

Advanced Usage

• "to issue a callback": to officially announce a product recall.

  • The regulator forced the company to issue a callback.

• "callback function": In computer programming, a callback is a piece of executable code (a function) that is passed as an argument to other code, which is expected to call back (execute) the argument at a given time.

  • The event handler uses a callback function to process the data.

Variants and Related Words

• Recall (n): Often used synonymously with 'callback' in the context of defective products, though 'recall' is more common.

  • The safety recall affected millions of units.

• Call back (phrasal verb): The action of returning a call or requesting a return.

  • Please ask him to call me back.

Synonyms

• Product Recall: Recall, withdrawal.
• Return Call: Follow-up, returned call.
• Second Audition: Recall, follow-up audition.

Related Phrases

• Callback number: The telephone number provided for someone to use when returning a call.

  • Please leave your name and a callback number.

• Callback request: A solicitation for someone to return a call.

  • The website has a form to submit a callback request.

Related Idioms

• To get a callback: To be successful enough in an initial audition to be invited for a second one.
  • If you get a callback, it means the director is interested.

Noun

1. a request by the manufacturer of a defective product to return the product (as for replacement or repair)