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
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.
The big picture: Close allies less than two months ago, relations between the U.S. and Canada have now frayed to the point that diplomacy is being conducted by furious TV appearances and social media name-calling. Ben Berkowitz, Axios, 11 Mar. 2025 Smith defended Barkley over his name-calling but did go after him for his opinion on ESPN's topic selection. William Lambers, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025 The ugly name-calling and social media campaigns over the governor’s unilateral call in January for a special session on immigration were all but ignored, except for a brief mention by Perez during his opening remarks. Jeffrey Schweers, Orlando Sentinel, 4 Mar. 2025 Zoom out: Bullying and harassment campaigns, which include everything from lawsuits to name-calling, are often easier and more effective than leveraging presidential powers. Sara Fischer, Axios, 20 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for name-calling

Word History

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

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

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Cite this Entry

“Name-calling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/name-calling. Accessed 18 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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