n. 1. The act of one who calls; a crying aloud, esp. in order to summon, or to attact the attention of, some one. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A summoning or convocation, as of Parliament. [ 1913 Webster ]

The frequent calling and meeting of Parlaiment. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. A divine summons or invitation; also, the state of being divinely called. [ 1913 Webster ]

Who hath . . . called us with an holy calling. 2 Tim. i. 9. [ 1913 Webster ]

Give diligence to make yior calling . . . sure. 2 Pet. i. 10. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. A naming, or inviting; a reading over or reciting in order, or a call of names with a view to obtaining an answer, as in legislative bodies. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. One's usual occupation, or employment; vocation; business; trade. [ 1913 Webster ]

The humble calling of ter female parent. Thackeray. [ 1913 Webster ]

6. The persons, collectively, engaged in any particular professions or employment. [ 1913 Webster ]

To impose celibacy on wholy callings. Hammond. [ 1913 Webster ]

7. Title; appellation; name. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

I am more proud to be Sir Rowland's son
His youngest son, and would not change that calling. Shak.

Syn. -- Occupation; employment; business; trade; profession; office; engagement; vocation. [ 1913 Webster ]