calling — a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action, especially when accompanied by conviction of divine influence
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action, especially when accompanied by conviction of divine influence
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈkɔːlɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- After trying 17 different jobs, Bob finally realized his calling was to be a professional couch tester.
- She felt a strong calling to help others through volunteer work.
- The priest discovered his calling after accidentally walking into a church while chasing his runaway pizza.
calling
NOUN[/ˈkɔːlɪŋ/]
a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action, especially when accompanied by conviction of divine influence

Discovering her calling to teach

Though falling and crawling, still following my calling
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old English 'ceallian,' which originally meant 'to shout' or 'to summon.' Over time, it developed a religious connotation, particularly in Christian contexts, where it came to mean 'to receive a divine calling' or 'to be chosen by God for a special purpose.'
Breakdown
ceallian (to call, to shout) + -ing (present participle/gerund suffix forming a noun). The suffix transforms the verb into a noun denoting the action or a vocation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“After trying 17 different jobs, Bob finally realized his calling was to be a professional couch tester.”
“She felt a strong calling to help others through volunteer work.”
“The priest discovered his calling after accidentally walking into a church while chasing his runaway pizza.”
“Teaching became her life's calling after she graduated from university.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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