The word call has several meanings:

1. To shout or say something loudly to get someone's attention. You might call your friend's name across the playground, or your mom might call you down for dinner. Animals do this too: a rooster calls at dawn, and whales call to each other across miles of ocean.
2. To telephone someone. When you call your grandparents, you're using a phone to talk with them. You might also receive a call from someone, or return someone's call when they've tried to reach you.
3. To name, choose, or describe something. A referee calls a foul in basketball when a player breaks the rules. Your teacher might call on you to answer a question. When you call something “impossible,” you're declaring what you think about it. If something is a close call, the outcome was uncertain until the very end.
4. To make a judgment or prediction. A weather forecaster calls for rain tomorrow. In poker, when you call, you match another player's bet because you think your cards are good enough to win.
5. The sound made by an animal, like a duck's call.

The word appears in many expressions: a calling is a purpose or career that feels right for you, like teaching or medicine. When duty calls, responsibility requires your attention.