Call Over: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on

January 27, 2024

The term "call over" typically refers to the act of summoning someone or getting their attention by calling out to them. It can be used in various contexts, from a casual invitation to join a conversation to a more formal request for someone's presence. The phrase can also imply reviewing or checking something verbally, as in a roll call or a quick recap of information.

In short:

It means to summon someone or get their attention by calling out.
It is also used to refer to reviewing or checking something verbally.

What Does "Call Over" Mean?

The phrase "call over" is a simple yet effective way of indicating the action of asking someone to come closer or join in through verbal communication. For instance, if someone at a gathering wants to include another person in a conversation, they might "call them over" to where they are sitting. In another scenario, a teacher might "call over" a student to discuss their work. The phrase can also refer to the process of calling out names or items to check attendance or verify a list.

More about the phrase's meaning:

It's commonly used in everyday conversations and can be seen in professional environments as well.
The term implies a verbal rather than physical action to gain someone's attention.
In some contexts, it can also mean to recite or review something out loud, like a list or names.
The phrase is versatile and can be used in both casual and formal situations.
Similar phrases include "summon over," "ask to come here," and "request to join."

Where Does "Call Over" Come From?

The compound verb "call over" merges "call" and "over," where "call" originates from Middle English "callen," Old English "ceallian," and Old Norse "kalla," all meaning to shout or name, tracing back to Proto-Germanic "*kalzōną" and Proto-Indo-European "*golH-so-" for voice or cry. "Over" in this phrase indicates inviting someone to come closer, particularly by raising one's voice to someone nearby. This phrase is widely used to signify summoning someone to one's location.

10 Examples of "Call Over" in Sentences

To help you understand how and when to use this phrase, here are some examples from different situations:

Seeing her friend across the room, she called him over to introduce him to her colleagues.
He was on the struggle bus, so he decided to call over a friend for help.
At the restaurant, the customer called the waiter over to place an order.
During the team meeting, the manager called over an expert to explain the new project.
Mystery solved! She finally figured out who had eaten her cookies and called over the culprit.
The coach called over the players to discuss the next play.
At the family gathering, the grandmother called everyone over for a group photo.
In the library, the student called over a friend to help with studying.
She lived a stone’s throw away from her parents, so she often called over to check on them.
During the workshop, the instructor called over participants for a demonstration.

Examples of "Call Over" in Pop Culture

This phrase is often used in movies, TV shows, and books to depict characters summoning others for various reasons.

Let's look at some examples:

Joy Jennings wrote in her book: "I am not your dog that you whistle for; I'm not a stray animal you call over, and I am not, I never have been, nor will I ever be, your 'baby'!" This quote reflects a strong stance on personal dignity and self-respect.
In the movie "Jackie Brown," a line goes: "All right. I call over there, she better answer the phone." This crime film, directed by Quentin Tarantino, explores themes of trust and betrayal.
The song "In For It" by Tory Lanez contains the lyrics: "Call over your homegirls, tell 'em I'm on it." This song is a blend of R&B and hip-hop, focusing on themes of attraction and nightlife.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Call Over"

Here are some alternative phrases that express the same idea:

Summon over
Ask to come here
Request to join
Beckon
Invite over
Wave over
Signal to come closer
Motion towards
Get someone's attention
Call to oneself

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Call Over":

What does "call over" mean?

"Call over" refers to summoning someone or getting their attention by calling out to them.

How can I use "call over" in a sentence?

You can say, "She called over her colleague to discuss the report," to indicate she asked her colleague to come to her by calling out.

Can "call over" be used in professional settings?

Yes, it's appropriate in both professional and casual settings to indicate asking someone to come closer or join a conversation.

Is "call over" a formal or informal phrase?

It's a versatile phrase that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Does "call over" imply a physical or verbal action?

It implies a verbal action, where someone uses their voice to attract attention or communicate with someone else.

Can "call over" also mean reviewing something verbally?

While its primary meaning is to summon someone, it can also refer to verbally reviewing or checking something, like in a roll call.

Is "call over" used only in English?

While the phrase "call over" is specific to English, many languages have their own equivalent expressions for summoning someone.

How old is the phrase "call over"?

The phrase has been part of the English language for many years, evolving in usage but retaining its fundamental meaning.

Can "call over" be considered rude?

It depends on the tone and context. If used politely, it is not considered rude.

Are there similar phrases to "call over"?

Similar phrases include "summon over," "ask to come here," and "request to join."

Final Thoughts About "Call Over"

The phrase "call over" is commonly used in both spoken and written English to indicate summoning someone or asking them to come closer. It's a simple yet effective way of communicating in various settings.

To recap: