call-in

1 of 2

adjective

: allowing listeners to engage in broadcast telephone conversations with the host or a guest
a call-in show

call in

2 of 2

verb

called in; calling in; calls in

transitive verb

1
: to order to return or to be returned: such as
a
: to withdraw from an advanced position
call in the outposts
b
: to withdraw from circulation
call in bank notes and issue new ones
2
: to summon to one's aid or for consultation
call in a mediator
3
: to deliver (a message) by telephone
call in an order for pizza

intransitive verb

: to communicate with a person by telephone

see also call in sick

Examples of call-in in a Sentence

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.
Adjective
Also among the Christmas edition is the fan-favorite Stump Mark trivia segment, which, instead of the usual call-in contestant, saw Consuelos play a live round of the guessing game with a sweet member of the studio audience. Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Dec. 2025 The conference and the Kremlin’s ‘Direct Line’ call-in show are being held together this year, meaning that in addition to taking questions from journalists, the Russian president will also answer questions from members of the public. Keir Simmons, NBC news, 19 Dec. 2025
Verb
During its most recent earnings call in November, the retailer cited its success in the fashion business, with incoming chief executive officer John Furner noting sales grew over 5 percent in the quarter. Jenny B. Fine, Footwear News, 23 Dec. 2025 Earlier this month, the Observer reported on an earlier set of 911 calls in which a Border Patrol agent reported that someone broke into his vehicle at a LongHorn Steakhouse. Charlotte Observer, 23 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for call-in

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1952, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of call-in was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Call-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-in. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Legal Definition

call in

transitive verb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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