call

/kɔːl/
verbBeginner to summon or invite someone to come
informal

to summon or invite someone to come

He called his dog to come inside.

He used the word 'call' to get his dog to come inside.

💡

Commonly used in everyday conversation.

informal

to make a telephone call

I need to call my mom later.

I need to make a telephone call to my mom later.

💡

Often used in the context of communication.

informal

to visit or stop by a place

We should call the store to see if they have it in stock.

We should visit the store to see if they have it in stock.

💡

Used to describe a brief visit.

informal

to name or refer to something

What do you call this type of flower?

What is the name of this type of flower?

💡

Used to ask for the name or description of something.

Collocations

call someoneto summon or invite someone to comecall a placeto visit or stop by a placecall a nameto name or refer to something

Related Phrases

call it a dayphrase
to stop working for the day
call someone's bluffphrase
to challenge someone's threat or claim
call the shotsphrase
to be in charge or control

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

'Call' is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, so pay attention to the context to understand its meaning.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'call' can vary greatly depending on the context, so always consider the surrounding words and situation.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'callen', from Old English 'ceallian', meaning to cry out or shout.

📝Usage Notes

The word 'call' is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from summoning someone to making a phone call or naming something.

Word Breakdown

call
to summon or invite
root
English Dictionary