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 The 2016 and 2024 primaries were a series of contentious fights that included name-calling and personal attacks. Max Thornberry, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 17 July 2024 Yes, but: His statement after the shooting had its own name-calling. Carlie Kollath Wells, Axios, 14 July 2024 Committee hearings behind closed doors will easily descend into accusations and name-calling. Isabella Murray, ABC News, 8 July 2024 Do not hurt anyone’s body (no hitting, pushing, or kicking). Do not hurt anyone’s feelings (no yelling, put-downs, or name-calling). Amy Morin, Parents, 3 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for name-calling 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'name-calling.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near name-calling

Cite this Entry

“Name-calling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/name-calling. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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