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

Phrases

call in sick

: to report by telephone that one will be absent because of illness

Examples of call-in in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The veteran broadcaster retired after hosting call-in talk shows for 30+ years. —Justin Kaufmann, Axios, 20 Dec. 2024

The ladies reminisce on past collaboration projects, and give relationship advice to a call-in fan. —Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 10 Dec. 2024

Verb

The situation took a turn when Amanda called in a panic after her babysitter canceled, needing someone to watch Jack. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

The Torrington Fire Marshal’s Office, Building Inspector and Eversource Gas were also on the scene, and additional firefighters were called in to provide city coverage. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 13 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1952, in the meaning defined above

Verb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Legal Definition

call in

transitive verb

: call sense 4