publish-subscribe

noun

UK /ˈpʌblɪʃ səbˈskraɪb/

US /ˈpʌblɪʃ səbˈskraɪb/

A way for computer programs to send messages to other programs that want to hear them.

The chat app uses publish-subscribe so every user gets new messages right away.

SYNONYMS

pub/sub message broadcasting event-driven messaging topic-based messaging

RELATED WORDS

messaging broker topic subscriber event

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A messaging pattern where senders do not know who receives their messages.

With publish-subscribe, the weather service never needs to know which apps are listening.

3. A system where a publisher sends updates and subscribers choose which updates they want.

The news feed uses publish-subscribe to deliver only the topics you follow.

4. A way to connect parts of a program without them talking to each other directly.

Publish-subscribe keeps the game's sound system separate from its score system.