Meaning & Definition of word "Calling"

Calling

/ˈkɔː.lɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. A strong urge toward a particular way of life or career; a vocation.
    • Example: She felt a calling to become a teacher and inspire young minds.
  • 2. A loud sound or cry, especially to attract attention.
    • Example: He heard the calling of the geese flying overhead.
  • 3. The vocation or profession in which one is engaged.
    • Example: His calling as a doctor fulfilled his desire to help others.

verb:

  • 1. To summon or attract someone's attention.
    • Example: She was calling her friends to join her for dinner.
  • 2. To make a phone call to someone.
    • Example: He is calling his parents to share the good news.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old Norse 'kalla' meaning 'to call'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

calling card:

A card that identifies a person or a means of establishing contact.

call to action:

An instruction to the audience to provoke immediate response.

a calling in life:

A deep sense of purpose or vocation.

Related Words

caller:

A person who calls or makes a request.

call:

To demand or ask for something.

callable:

Able to be called or summoned.

Slang Meanings of calling

Meaning: A calling out to get someone's attention, often used informally.

Example Sentence: Yo, that's your calling right there!

Meaning: Implying someone has a special knack for something.

Example Sentence: He's got a real calling for this job.