Synonyms of call-innext
: 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
see also:

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
Almost every live broadcast has a call-in element that allows viewers to speak on-air to their favorite hosts, to ask questions about the product, or, more frequently, praise it and announce their intention to buy more. Hannah Engler Harvey, Longreads, 30 July 2026 The sheriff's office initiated an emergency call-in of all off-duty deputies and requested mutual aid from Rock, Kenosha and Jefferson counties and the Wisconsin State Patrol and DNR. Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 4 July 2026
Verb
Because of the seriousness of the victim's injuries, homicide detectives were called in to investigate. Bryan Lynn, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026 LiaBraaten, senior executive spokesperson at Truecaller, a Caller ID and spam blocking app, said a man called in recently asking for help. Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 18 Aug. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Call-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-in. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

Legal Definition

call in

transitive verb
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