fallbackvalue

noun

UK /ˈfɔːlbæk ˌvæljuː/

US /ˈfɔːlbæk ˌvæljuː/

A fallback value is a backup number or answer used when the main one is missing.

If the sensor sends no reading, the program uses a fallback value of zero.

SYNONYMS

default value backup value substitute value reserve value safety value

RELATED WORDS

default fallback placeholder contingency backup

OTHER MEANINGS

2. In programming, a preset value a variable takes when no input is given.

The form field has a fallback value of 'unknown' when left blank.

3. In finance, an estimated price used when a market quote is unavailable.

The app showed a fallback value for the stock until the market opened.

4. In engineering, a safe setting a system switches to if the normal one fails.

The thermostat uses a fallback value of 20°C if its sensor breaks.

5. In data entry, a standard entry filled in automatically when a field is empty.

Missing dates were replaced with a fallback value of January 1st.