name-calling

noun

name-call·​ing ˈnām-ˌkȯ-liŋ How to pronounce name-calling (audio)
: 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

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
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.
Many, particularly supporters of President Donald Trump, responded with outrage or worse, devolving into name-calling. Kevin Grasha, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025 And an additional 37% reported verbal assaults, threats, and name-calling. Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2025 While Trump’s name-calling of Powell isn’t particularly new, the words now could signal action. Jeff Cox, CNBC, 26 June 2025 Red flags such as name-calling, humiliation, neglect, gaslighting, screaming or threatening to end the relationship can be swept under the rug. Hannah Yasharoff, USA Today, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for name-calling

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of name-calling was in 1819

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Cite this Entry

“Name-calling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/name-calling. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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