Spread Syntax or Spread Operator: What\'s the Correct Term?

Is It Spread "Syntax" or the Spread "Operator"?

The ECMAScript community has been debating whether the term "spread syntax" or "spread operator" is more appropriate to describe the ... syntax. Despite its popularity, the latter is not correct. Here's why:

It Does Not Meet the Definition of an Operator

• Operators are built-in functions that evaluate to a single value.
• Spread syntax, when used in array literals or function calls, evaluates to multiple values.
• As a result, it fails the single value requirement of operators.

It Cannot Be Used as an Operator

• Syntax determines the form or structure of a language. Operators are standalone entities.
• The spread syntax cannot be used independently as an operator, such as "const bar = ...foo".

The Language Specification Implies Non-Operator Status

• The ECMAScript specification explicitly lists all operators. Spread syntax is not included in this list.
• Instead, the specification describes it as an extension to array literals and function calls.

Important Clarification

Spread syntax is not a monolithic concept. It encompasses different applications of the ... punctuator, which extends the grammar of the language specifically in array literals and function calls.

Conclusion

Based on the objective criteria above, it is clear that "spread syntax" is the correct term. Calling it an "operator" is a misnomer because it violates the fundamental definitions and characteristics of operators in ECMAScript.

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