calling card

[kaw-ling kahrd]

noun

1. Also called card, visiting card. a small card with the name and often the address of a person or of a couple, for presenting when making a business or social call, for enclosing in gifts, etc.

2. Informal.,  any mark, sign, trace, characteristic, or the like by which someone or something can be recognized.

3. Also called phone card. a prepaid card or charge card that can be used to make a telephone call at home or away from home.

calling card

noun

1. Also called: visiting card. a small card bearing the name and usually the address of a person, esp for giving to business or social acquaintances

Word History and Origins

Origin of calling card¹

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

This is in keeping with the show’s calling card of marrying high and low culinary traditions, transforming the concept of upscale into a state of mind.

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In that context, “After the Hunt” stands now less as a calling card than as a reminder of how far they’ve come and yet how much further they want to go.

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Though Blue Owl has three lines of business, private credit—specifically direct lending in private-equity deals—is the firm’s calling card and growth engine, and the straw that’s stirring Wall Street’s punch bowl lately.

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Figure this out; it will be your advantage and calling card.

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Hastings had used a calling card number that belonged to Roberta Wydermyer and was in her wallet at the time of the slaying.

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Related Words

• business card