Can arrow functions be named in JavaScript?
No. Arrow functions are always anonymous. For recursion with arrows, you must use the outer variable name (const factorial = (n) => n * factorial(n - 1)), which is fragile if the variable is reassigned.
Verify This Answer
Cross-check this information using these trusted sources:
More FAQs in Named Function Expressions and Recursion in JavaScript
A function expression with an internal name, like const greet = function sayHi() {}. The internal name (sayHi) is only visible inside the function, useful for recursion and better stack traces. Outside, you use the variable name (greet).
Because the internal name is available inside the function for self-reference. This is more robust than using the outer variable, which could be reassigned. The internal name is stable and always refers to the function itself.
Yes. The internal name appears in stack traces instead of <anonymous>, which makes debugging easier. This is one reason to prefer named function expressions for critical code paths.
Still have questions?
Browse all our FAQs or reach out to our support team