# Return Value (JavaScript)

Functions may or may not return a response value when they are called.

## What is a **return value**?

Functions may or may not return a response value when they 
are called. When a function returns a response
this is called a **return value**;

Functions with **NO return value** can be defined 
like this
```javascript
function sayHello() {
    console.log('Hello');
    // return is implied
}

function sayHello() {
    console.log('Hello');
    return; // the return is explicit
}
```

Functions that **return a value** must always explicity
specify the return
```javascript
function add(first, second) {
    return first + second;
}
```

Level: Apprentice · [More JavaScript terms at this level](https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/subjects/javascript/apprentice)

Updated: September 27, 2026

Source: https://www.ask-codey.com/glossary/return-value-javascript