Call somebody names

usgb
verb phrase

To insult someone by using disrespectful or rude words.

The kids were calling each other names on the playground.
Visual representation of "call somebody names" - To insult someone by using disrespectful or rude words.

Often appears as...

  • stop calling names
  • kids calling names

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "call somebody names"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

This phrase often hurts feelings and can be taken personally; it's not polite or kind.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
When he started to call her names, she felt very upset and told the teacher.
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Often Childish

'Calling names' is seen as immature behavior, more common among children than adults.

Illustration for Often Childish
Even in the heated debate, the politician refrained from calling his opponent names.
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Cyberbullying Context

In the digital age, 'calling names' online is considered cyberbullying and is equally harmful.

Illustration for Cyberbullying Context
She was distraught to find that her classmates were calling her names in a group chat.
Visual representation of the word "Call somebody names"

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