verb

eval

EE-val

verb

To run a piece of program code that is stored as a text string, rather than as compiled instructions.

"The script uses eval to run whatever formula the user types in."

"Security experts warn against using eval on input you don't fully trust."

How to Use Eval

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIn programming, a command that takes text and runs it as if it were code. Informally, also used as shorthand for "evaluation".

Common mistake

Using eval on untrusted input (like text typed by a website visitor) is a well-known security risk, since it can run malicious code.

Common pairings

use eval an eval function eval script

evaled past tense, evalled past tense, evals singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “eval” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Can you complete this real example?

The script uses _____ to run whatever formula the user types in.

A shortening of "evaluate", used as both a programming keyword and informal shorthand for an evaluation or assessment.

medieval primeval retrieval