calling names
Hurling mean labels
Calling names is insulting someone by labeling them with offensive or demeaning words: The other kids were calling her names on the playground.
The phrase typically describes verbal bullying or childish taunting rather than adult insults, though it applies to any age.
To call someone names is to engage in this behavior.
- slandersFalsely damages reputation
- tauntInsulting provocation
- insultOffensive remark or action
- epithetsCharacterizing phrases for people
- mockeryScornful ridicule or travesty
derision · nicknames · ridicule · jeer · bullying · sobriquet · stigma · slur · put-down · low blow · moniker · emotional manipulation · sneer · talking smack · power dynamics · vituperation · invective · mudslinging
calling namespraising
Voicing admiration
complimenting · flattering · lauding · extolling · affirming
calling namesdefending
Protecting against harm
standing up for · befriending · embracing · welcoming · including
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