curtain call

noun

: an appearance by a performer (as after the final curtain of a play) in response to the applause of the audience

Examples of curtain call in a Sentence

The singer came back for one more curtain call.
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 crowd erupts, and Messi will get his curtain call. — The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 17 June 2026 There were, in fact, so many targets to choose from that some of the best jokes had to be held for after the curtain call. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 6 June 2026 The team and its fanbase are betting that Dybantsa will be asked to come out for curtain calls and encores, again and again. — David Aldridge, New York Times, 24 June 2026 Harry Caray was the ringleader, and the Sox players took curtain calls after home runs, making every win feel like a playoff game. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for curtain call

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of curtain call was in 1884

Rhymes for curtain call

See All Rhymes for curtain call

Browse Nearby Words

curtain board
curtain call
curtainfall
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

curtain call

noun
: an appearance by a performer (as after the final curtain of a play) in response to the applause of the audience
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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