calling card

American  

[kaw-ling kahrd] / ˈkɔ lɪŋ ˌkɑrd /

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 British  

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

---

Etymology

Origin of calling card

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Related Words

• business card