Top-Level Await

Definitions

1. A JavaScript feature (ES2022) that allows the `await` keyword to be used at the module's top scope rather than only inside async functions, causing the module to asynchronously resolve before any dependent modules execute — useful for dynamic imports, config loading, and database connections at startup.

   In plain English: A JavaScript feature that lets you wait for something (like loading data) right at the start of a file, instead of needing a special wrapper function.

   Example: "With top-level await I can just write `const db = await connect()` at the top of the module instead of wrapping everything in an async IIFE."

Related Terms

• Callback Hell
• Event Loop
• Promise
• Isomorphic
• Lexical Scope
• Module System
• Promise Chain
• Promise.all
• Prototype Chain
• Reactive Programming
• Redux Thunk
• Suspension Point
• Zone