What is a lambda language?

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I was reading "JavaScript: The Good Parts" and the author mentions that JavaScript is the first of the lambda languages to be launched.

JavaScript's functions are first class objects with (mostly) lexical scoping. JavaScript is the first lambda language to go mainstream. Deep down, JavaScript has more in common with Lisp and Scheme than with Java. It is Lisp in C's clothing. This makes JavaScript is remarkably powerful language.

I didn't get what is a lambda language. What are the properties of such a language and how is it different from languages like Java, C, C++ and Php?

lambda javascript
7 Answers

  • JavaScript allows to define Anonymous function that is a function which is not bound to an identifier. Such function is also known as Lambda Abstraction and since JS support this it is known as Lambda Language.

  • Properties : This function are needed in case of immediate execution of a function or for short term use, where there is no significance of giving name to function.

  • It is different from languages like Java, C, C++ and PHP as in JS Anonymous functions are used for Closure and Currying.

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