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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of calling card

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

Few things are a better calling card for queer counterculture than a Daft Punk deep cut.

From Salon • Mar. 1, 2026

His calling card: He added a dose of mirth to the sober ministerings of a profession not known for its sense of humor or rhetorical skills.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

Volatility has been silver’s calling card in recent months but even by recent standards the last week has been a roller-coaster ride.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 13, 2026

Every candidate enters a contest with a backstory and a record, which is condensed to a summary that serves as calling card, strategic foundation and a rationale for their run.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 1, 2026

I’d even used the calling card Marcus had given me, and called Viviana from the hospital, but she hadn’t answered.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson

Related Words

• business card