close call

noun

ˈklōs- How to pronounce close call (audio)
Synonyms of close callnext
: a narrow escape

Synonyms of close call

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Examples of close call in a Sentence

We nearly didn't get out of the burning building. It was a pretty close call, let me tell you! the doctor said I'd had a close call, and was lucky to be alive
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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.
The next day, a close call occurred between a Delta Air Lines Airbus A319 taking off and a flight of US Air Force T-38 jets flying over the neighboring Arlington National Cemetery. — Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026 The wardrobe close call was the latest candid moment from Clarkson during her Las Vegas residency. — Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 10 Aug. 2026 Commenters on Jacobs’ post were sympathetic to his close call in nearly dropping an expletive. — Rachel McRady, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026 In Atlanta, this became evident when two large planes were involved in a close call that narrowly avoided a collision. — Irene Wright, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for close call

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of close call was in 1861

Rhymes for close call

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Browse Nearby Words

close by (someone or something)
close call
close chair
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Cite this Entry

“Close call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20call. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

close call

noun
: a narrow escape
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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