roll call

noun

1

: the act or an instance of calling off a list of names (as for checking attendance)

also : a time for a roll call

2

: list entry 1

Synonyms

• canon
• catalog
• catalogue
• checklist
• list
• listing
• menu
• register
• registry
• roll
• roster
• schedule
• table

Examples of roll call in a Sentence

Two students missed roll call.

the roll call of the fallen was read aloud at the memorial service

Recent Examples on the Web

When roll call on the vote was taken Vasquez hesitated and gave a short speech before voting in favor. —Shelley Jones, Chicago Tribune, 5 Oct. 2024

Ivan would show up to the base for roll call and go home for the rest of the day, waiting for his termination. —Sarah A. Topol, New York Times, 20 Sep. 2024

Located at the site of Taylor’s original 1923 high school, the roll call now includes dozens of shops and restaurants in the building’s band room, classrooms, and locker rooms. —Cynthia Drake, Southern Living, 26 Sep. 2024

The party quickly coalesced around her, with 99% of Democratic delegates voting to officially nominate her in a virtual roll call prior to the Democratic National Convention in August. —Sara Dorn, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

roll call

noun

: the action of calling off a list of names (as for checking attendance)

also : a time for a roll call

Legal Definition

roll call

noun

: the act or an instance of calling off a list of names (as for checking attendance)

specifically : an act or instance of calling the roll of a legislative body to determine if there is a quorum or to vote on a matter