ENGLISH
REFERENCE

calling

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //ˈkɔɫɪŋ// UK //kˈɔːlɪŋ// call·ing

n. a strong feeling that you are meant to do a certain job or way of life. It is more than just a career; it is something you feel deeply passionate about.

n. a strong inner urge or conviction to follow a particular career, profession, or way of life, often perceived as a divine or spiritual summons.


SIMPLE

She felt a calling to become a doctor.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of working in finance, he realized his true calling was teaching children in his local community.

COMPLEX

While many view medicine as a mere profession, those who treat it as a calling often demonstrate a level of resilience that prevents burnout during the most demanding shifts.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

From Middle English callyng, kallyng, kalland, from Old English *cealliende and Old Norse kallandi, equivalent to call + -ing.

Etymology 2

From Middle English calling, callynge, equivalent to call + -ing.

Usage

Often used with the verbs 'find', 'follow', or 'feel'.

Idioms1 entry

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