call-in

1 of 2

adjective

: allowing listeners to engage in broadcast telephone conversations with the host or a guest
a call-in show

call in

2 of 2

verb

called in; calling in; calls in

transitive verb

1
: to order to return or to be returned: such as
a
: to withdraw from an advanced position
call in the outposts
b
: to withdraw from circulation
call in bank notes and issue new ones
2
: to summon to one's aid or for consultation
call in a mediator
3
: to deliver (a message) by telephone
call in an order for pizza

intransitive verb

: to communicate with a person by telephone
Phrases
call in sick
: to report by telephone that one will be absent because of illness

Examples of call-in in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The ladies reminisce on past collaboration projects, and give relationship advice to a call-in fan. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 10 Dec. 2024 The store also offers a daily 15% discount for veterans on all dine-in and call-in orders. Chris Sims, The Courier-Journal, 11 Nov. 2024
Verb
The situation took a turn when Amanda called in a panic after her babysitter canceled, needing someone to watch Jack. Melissa Fleur Afshar, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024 The Torrington Fire Marshal’s Office, Building Inspector and Eversource Gas were also on the scene, and additional firefighters were called in to provide city coverage. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for call-in 

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1952, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of call-in was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near call-in

Cite this Entry

“Call-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-in. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Legal Definition

call in

transitive verb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!