This internal function returns the default value for the object, given that the caller indicates a preferred result type in the hint argument.

The hint gives some suggestion to the receiving object about the preferred result type. This is a fairly ambiguous result. Generally if you ask for a string you will get a string. Asking for a number will generally yield a number. However, there are cases where the DefaultValue for an object cannot be rendered into the preferred type and you may generate a run-time error.

If you don't specify any hint value at all, the DefaultValue will first assume you want a Number unless the receiver is a Date object in which case it assumes a String is required.

Cross-references:

ECMA 262 edition 2 - section - 8.6.2.6

ECMA 262 edition 3 - section - 8.6.2.6