call-in

1 of 2

adjective

ˈkȯl-ˌin 

: 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

Adjective

In April, the journalist launched his own website as well as a digital call-in show. — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 18 Oct. 2026

On message boards and on call-in shows, Lewis, who turned 19 late last month, has shouldered much of the blame. — Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2026

Verb

On the earnings call in August, an analyst asked whether Airtable represents a long-term shift in the M&A strategy towards enterprise. — Cj Haddad, CNBC, 17 Oct. 2026

Restoring the hotel’s façade will require more than just throwing up the scaffolding and calling in a team. — Timothy Latterner, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1952, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for call-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• crankpin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin

Legal Definition

call in

transitive verb

: call sense 4