close call

noun

: a narrow escape

Examples of close call in a Sentence

We nearly didn't get out of the burning building. It was a pretty close call, let me tell you! the doctor said I'd had a close call, and was lucky to be alive
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.
Sure, there have been a handful of close calls where fires have prompted us to pack up or evacuate. Faith Barton, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 July 2025 Watch as sharks tear into his prosthetic limbs, squirm amid some gripping close calls, and allow the very macho commentary to wash over you and grimace (or giggle) at a shocking amount of fake blood. Kevin Dolak, HollywoodReporter, 20 July 2025 Positive vibes only for Max Homa after his close call at the John Deere, even if his DMs weren't so positive. Kendall Capps, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025 Most majors have a video review system as a backup to any close calls. Chris Branch, New York Times, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for close call

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of close call was in 1881

Cite this Entry

“Close call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20call. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

close call

noun
: a narrow escape
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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