as in libel
the use of personal attacks or insults in order to undermine an opponent
the campaign quickly degenerated into name-calling rather than an intelligent discussion of the issues
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of name-calling
In the Instagram video, Tammy acknowledged fans were angry with her and apologized for name-calling, but said that Amy had humiliated her and acted carelessly.
—
Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 7 Dec. 2024
The authors also strictly warn against name-calling or insulting a partner, as this can only create relationship strain and signal disrespect.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024
Economic uncertainty is what won the day for Trump and the GOP this past week, not name-calling or hate speech.
—Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 10 Nov. 2024
Policy proposals aside, there's been name-calling, vulgarity, and plain old meanness.
—Jon Lapook, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for name-calling 
Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 7 Dec. 2024
The authors also strictly warn against name-calling or insulting a partner, as this can only create relationship strain and signal disrespect.
—Mark Travers, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024
Economic uncertainty is what won the day for Trump and the GOP this past week, not name-calling or hate speech.
—Baltimore Sun Editorial Board, Baltimore Sun, 10 Nov. 2024
Policy proposals aside, there's been name-calling, vulgarity, and plain old meanness.
—Jon Lapook, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for name-calling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for name-calling
Noun
-
The allegations were cemented in a New York Times article — for which Baldoni has filed a $250 million libel lawsuit against the outlet — as well as Lively’s Dec. 31 lawsuit against her former costar.—
Jami Ganz,
New York Daily News,
12 Feb. 2025
-
The situation escalated quickly, with Baldoni responding by filing a $250 million libel suit against The New York Times and later a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, Reynolds, and her publicist Leslie Sloane for alleged defamation and civil extortion.—
Jenzia Burgos,
StyleCaster,
9 Feb. 2025
Noun
-
The first censure also cited comments Quirk made in the media about the plan to move the rail off the Del Mar bluffs that contradicted the city’s official position.—
Luke Harold,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
5 Feb. 2025
-
But as part of the censure, the board barred Morris from taking part in deliberations and votes regarding the Hagekhalil investigation.—
Ian James,
Los Angeles Times,
24 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
Swift would not disclose details of the abuse, saying the investigation is in its early stages.—
Bill Hutchinson,
ABC News,
19 Feb. 2025
-
The gesture is also a stark reminder of the lasting impact of abuse on players.—
Caoimhe O'Neill,
The Athletic,
19 Feb. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near name-calling
Cite this Entry
“Name-calling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/name-calling. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share