close call

noun

ˈklōs- How to pronounce close call (audio)
Synonyms of close callnext
: a narrow escape

Synonyms of close call

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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.
Even that victory was a close call. — Gautam Mukunda, Mercury News, 20 June 2026 Incredibly close call in the 67th minute! — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 27 June 2026 Ahead of her first-round match Tuesday, Ajla Tomljanovic described her close calls. — ABC News, 30 June 2026 Taking these simple precautions can make the difference between a close call and a tragedy. — Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 27 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for close call

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of close call was in 1861

Rhymes for close call

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Browse Nearby Words

close by (someone or something)
close call
close chair
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Cite this Entry

“Close call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20call. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

close call

noun
: a narrow escape
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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