call
UK[kɔːl]US[kɔːl]
v
to give someone or something a name
v
to use your voice to say something in a loud and clear way so that someone can hear you
v
to telephone someone
v
to ask or order someone to come
n
an act of telephoning someone
n
a loud sound that a bird or animal makes
n
a decision made by an official in a sports game
Etymology
The verb 'call' descends from the Old English 'ceallian', meaning 'to shout, name, summon'. This Old English term is likely derived from the Proto-Germanic 'kallōną', which carried the core sense of making a loud vocal sound. The word's journey illustrates a common semantic path from a specific, physical action (to shout) to a broader range of communicative and summoning acts. Its modern meanings, encompassing naming, telephoning, and requesting presence, all logically extend from this ancient root concept of using one's voice to attract attention or convey information.
Analysis
The word 'call' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a single, indivisible root morpheme in modern English.
Examples
They decided to call their daughter Maya.
Please call for help if you see smoke.
I'll call you tomorrow to discuss the details.