name-calling

[ neym-kaw-ling ]

noun

1. the use of abusive names to belittle or humiliate another person in a political campaign, an argument, etc.

name-calling

noun

1. verbal abuse, esp as a crude form of argument

Word History and Origins

Origin of name-calling¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

He said Mr Rogers had reported being subjected to "name calling, targeted behaviour and exclusion and rejection following allegations made against him about his conduct".

From BBC

Her family are now backing a Save Face campaign for a new law in her name, calling for more regulation in the industry.

From BBC

Was it all the golf he played, all the TV he watched, all the name calling?

From Salon

Over the five years, things had changed slowly, from name calling, to controlling her behaviour.

From BBC

At an August rally in Atlanta, Trump praised three of them by name, calling them “pit bulls fighting for honesty, transparency and victory.”

From Salon

Related Words

• insult