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Why does my browser's call stack show "anonymous" for some functions when debugging JavaScript?

Asked on Dec 08, 2025

Answer

When you see "anonymous" in the call stack while debugging JavaScript, it typically means that the function does not have a name. This can happen with functions that are defined inline or as anonymous functions. Here's a simple example to illustrate this:

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
        setTimeout(function() {
            console.log("This is an anonymous function.");
        }, 1000);
        <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

The function inside `setTimeout` is an anonymous function because it doesn't have a name.
Anonymous functions are often used for short, one-off operations, such as callbacks.
Naming functions can improve stack traces and make debugging easier.
You can name the function like this: `setTimeout(function myFunction() {...}, 1000);` to avoid "anonymous" in the call stack.

✅ Answered with JavaScript best practices.

Ask any question about JavaScript here... and get an instant response.

Why does my browser's call stack show "anonymous" for some functions when debugging JavaScript?

Asked on Dec 08, 2025

Answer

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