call-and-response
noun
call-and-re·sponse
ˌkȯl-ən(d)-ri-ˈspän(t)s 
: a statement quickly followed by an answering statement
also
: a musical phrase in which the first and often solo part is answered by a second and often ensemble part
Examples of call-and-response in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Boeing’s emergency checklists warn pilots not to rush through a formal call-and-response between the captain and the first officer before shutting down an engine.
—
James Glanz, New York Times, 1 May 2026
That sentiment echoed throughout the stadium in excited conversations, joyful flag-waving, and great whooping call-and-responses.
—Cheri Lucas Rowlands, Longreads, 21 Apr. 2026
The church hummed with energy as the gathering engaged in call-and-response heard just about any Sunday in Baptist churches.
—Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026
Traditional música jíbara, characterized by décima poetry (an ancient style of poetry from Spain), call-and-response singing, and instruments such as the cuatro, articulated the experiences, struggles, and values of rural life.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026
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James Glanz, New York Times, 1 May 2026
That sentiment echoed throughout the stadium in excited conversations, joyful flag-waving, and great whooping call-and-responses.
—Cheri Lucas Rowlands, Longreads, 21 Apr. 2026
The church hummed with energy as the gathering engaged in call-and-response heard just about any Sunday in Baptist churches.
—Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026
Traditional música jíbara, characterized by décima poetry (an ancient style of poetry from Spain), call-and-response singing, and instruments such as the cuatro, articulated the experiences, struggles, and values of rural life.
—Encyclopedia Britannica, 20 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for call-and-response
Cite this Entry
“Call-and-response.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-and-response. Accessed 6 May. 2026.
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