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.
For the Yankees two frustrating losses to start their first World Series appearance since 2009 is defined by close calls and some what-if situations. Larry Fleisher, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024 The federal official said the close calls did not involve commercial airline traffic. Kris Van Cleave, CBS News, 4 Oct. 2024 Grappling with her own close calls has only deepened her empathy for what Traci must have endured. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 29 Oct. 2024 She’s overcome tremendous challenges, including close calls with her son’s health and the loss of her father, which have profoundly impacted her. Jack McCullough, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near close call

Cite this Entry

“Close call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20call. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

close call

noun
: a narrow escape
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!