Definition of 'call in'

call in

1. phrasal verb

If you call someone in, you ask them to come and help you or do something for you.

Call in an architect or surveyor to oversee the work. [VERB PARTICLE noun]

[Also VERB noun PARTICLE]

2. phrasal verb

If you call in somewhere, you make a short visit there.

He just calls in occasionally. [VERB PARTICLE]

I got into the habit of calling in on Gloria on my way home. [VERB PARTICLE + on]

call

call-in

Word forms: plural call-ins

countable noun

A call-in is a programme on radio or television in which people telephone with questions or opinions and their calls are broadcast.

[US]

...a call-in show on Los Angeles radio station KABC.

regional note: in BRIT, use phone-in

call in in British

verb (adverb)

1. (intransitive; often foll by on)

to pay a visit, esp a brief or informal one

call in if you are in the neighbourhood

2. (transitive)

to demand payment of

to call in a loan

3. (transitive)

to take (something) out of circulation, because it is defective or no longer useful

4. (transitive)

to summon to one's assistance

they had to call in a specialist

noun call-in

a radio programme which invites its listeners to telephone the presenter

a call-in show on Los Angeles radio station KABC

call-in in British

(ˈkɔːlˌɪn), call-in program or call-in show

noun

a radio programme listeners phone in to

a call-in show on Los Angeles radio station KABC

call in in British

or into question

to make (something) the subject of disagreement

to cast doubt upon the validity, truth, etc, of (something)

question

call in in American

to summon for help or consultation

to take out of circulation, as coin or bonds

to demand payment of

call

call-in in American

(ˈkɔlˌɪn ; kôlˈinˌ)

adjective

of or having to do with a radio or TV program during which members of the audience call in by telephone to comment on subjects under discussion, ask questions of guests, etc.

a call-in show

Example sentences containing 'call in'

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There were no others Harrell could call in, not quickly enough to matter. Thomas, Craig THE LAST RAVENAnd if Manda is there working for them, I want to get her away before I call in the police. Keene, Carolyn THE WITCH TREE SYMBOL