curtain call

noun

: an appearance by a performer (as after the final curtain of a play) in response to the applause of the audience

Examples of curtain call in a Sentence

The singer came back for one more curtain call.
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.
Broadway producers traditionally gauge audience reaction by warm applause at the end of Act 1 or a standing ovation during curtain call. — William Earl, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026 After hitting that home run, Perez gave the Royals faithful — as well as his mom, wife and kids in the stands — a curtain call. — Kansas City Star, 25 July 2026 However, during the curtain call, outstanding — or maybe just good-looking — male actors are sometimes pelted with loose flowers by their admirers. — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 20 July 2026 Eckhardt continues skating in exquisite, small loops, showing her exhaustion at times, through the curtain call. — Lauren Oyler, New Yorker, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for curtain call

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of curtain call was in 1884

Rhymes for curtain call

See All Rhymes for curtain call

Browse Nearby Words

curtain board
curtain call
curtainfall
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Curtain call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curtain%20call. Accessed 16 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

curtain call

noun
: an appearance by a performer (as after the final curtain of a play) in response to the applause of the audience
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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