call number

noun

: a combination of characters assigned to a library book to indicate its place on a shelf

Examples of call number in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Using a computer analysis tool, the researchers further found that the first calls in a series differ significantly, depending on the number of calls to follow–indicating that crows are planning their response and call number from the very first caw. — Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 23 May 2024 Entities that illegally call numbers in the registry can be fined up to $50,000 per call. — Zach Everson, Forbes, 29 Mar. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of call number was in 1876

Rhymes for call number

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Cite this Entry

“Call number.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call%20number. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

call number

noun
: a combination of numbers and letters assigned to a library book to indicate its location in the library

More from Merriam-Webster on call number

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about call number

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