name-calling

noun

name-call·​ing ˈnām-ˌkȯ-liŋ 

: the use of offensive names especially to win an argument or to induce rejection or condemnation (as of a person or project) without objective consideration of the facts

Synonyms of name-calling

• libel
• censure
• abuse
• mudslinging

Examples of name-calling in a Sentence

the campaign quickly degenerated into name-calling rather than an intelligent discussion of the issues

Recent Examples on the Web

The overwhelming no vote, despite Republicans having a supermajority in the state Senate, capped off a bitter state fight for control that has spurred violent threats, doxxing incidents, nasty name-calling, and has changed the political landscape ahead of next year’s midterm elections. —Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 12 Dec. 2025

Nasty name-calling, ill-mannered insults, and menacing mudslinging have been a part of American politics for centuries. —Christopher Harris, CBS News, 21 Nov. 2025

Infighting and name-calling immediately broke out among party ranks in response to Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray's decision. —Kayla Dwyer, IndyStar, 17 Nov. 2025

Bullying can be physical harm, such as hitting, kicking, and tripping, as well as name-calling and teasing, spreading rumors, leaving others out of the group, and damaging victims’ property, according to the CDC. —Saleen Martin, USA Today, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for name-calling

• overhauling
• appalling
• enthralling
• forestalling
• installing
• recalling
• balling
• bawling
• brawling
• calling
• colling
• crawling