name-calling
noun
name-call·ing
ˈnām-ˌkȯ-liŋ 
: the use of offensive names especially to win an argument or to induce rejection or condemnation (as of a person or project) without objective consideration of the facts
Examples of name-calling in a Sentence
the campaign quickly degenerated into name-calling rather than an intelligent discussion of the issues
Recent Examples on the Web
Such name-calling defies the typical Idaho Republican approach, observers say.
—
Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 29 Jan. 2026
Crockett is a liberal with a propensity for name-calling and a taste for feuds.
—Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 12 Jan. 2026
Other concerning behaviors may include constant messaging, controlling actions, name-calling, threats, or refusing to respect your boundaries.
—Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 9 Jan. 2026
Verbal bullying can mean teasing, taunting, name-calling or threatening another child out loud or in writing.
—Dr. Mahvash Madni, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for name-calling
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Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 29 Jan. 2026
Crockett is a liberal with a propensity for name-calling and a taste for feuds.
—Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 12 Jan. 2026
Other concerning behaviors may include constant messaging, controlling actions, name-calling, threats, or refusing to respect your boundaries.
—Elissa Jorgensen, Dallas Morning News, 9 Jan. 2026
Verbal bullying can mean teasing, taunting, name-calling or threatening another child out loud or in writing.
—Dr. Mahvash Madni, Boston Herald, 4 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for name-calling
Cite this Entry
“Name-calling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/name-calling. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.
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