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.
There have been some close calls, with the closest being a 75-74 defeat in Game 2 of last season’s opening round, a game where Golden State held multiple large leads before succumbing late to a Minnesota comeback. — Christian Babcock, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2026 There are many close calls, and younger kids may need to be prepped. — Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 14 Aug. 2026 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 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 22 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

close call

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