call-and-response
noun
call-and-re·sponse
ˌkȯl-ən(d)-ri-ˈspän(t)s 
: a statement quickly followed by an answering statement
also
: a musical phrase in which the first and often solo part is answered by a second and often ensemble part
Examples of call-and-response in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The lions start a call-and-response – thunder from their throats.
—
Sarah Matusek, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Apr. 2025
Of course, the A did not disappoint, and even made a playful but thunderous call-and-response towards the end of the song.
—Shaheem Reid, Variety, 4 Feb. 2025
Pos asked the crowd, referencing Maseo’s Ralph Lauren wears, before challenging the men and women in their crowd to make their presence felt via the customary call-and-response routine.
—Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 30 Jan. 2025
Me Da La Gana with lively plena, a Puerto-Rican folk call-and-response genre.
—Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for call-and-response
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Sarah Matusek, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Apr. 2025
Of course, the A did not disappoint, and even made a playful but thunderous call-and-response towards the end of the song.
—Shaheem Reid, Variety, 4 Feb. 2025
Pos asked the crowd, referencing Maseo’s Ralph Lauren wears, before challenging the men and women in their crowd to make their presence felt via the customary call-and-response routine.
—Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 30 Jan. 2025
Me Da La Gana with lively plena, a Puerto-Rican folk call-and-response genre.
—Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for call-and-response
Cite this Entry
“Call-and-response.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/call-and-response. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share