Thunk

usgb/θʌŋk/
noun

A procedure that is not executed until it is called upon.

She created a thunk to delay the calculation until it's needed.
Visual representation of "thunk" - A procedure that is not executed until it is called upon.

Often appears as...

  • lazy loading
  • deferred execution

Usage tips

Neutral

lazy loading, delayed execution, deferred function

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "thunk"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Computing Context

Understanding thunks in programming

Illustration for Computing Context
In programming, a thunk is used to encapsulate a computation to be performed later.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Thinking

Using 'thunk' to mean think deeply

Illustration for Informal Thinking
In everyday conversation, if someone says 'I need to thunk about it', they mean they need to reflect on the decision.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Technical Usage

Statement of a thunk’s purpose

Illustration for Technical Usage
Thunks are often discussed in software design patterns, referring to lazily evaluated functions.
Visual representation of the word "Thunk"

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