Definitions

curtain call

NOUN

appearance to receive applause

Synonyms

STRONGEST

applause ovation

WEAK

bow curtain

Antonyms

STRONGEST

silence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the weeks leading to Thursday's curtain call, 62-year-old Colbert has at times cut a subdued figure, lacking some of his usual cheerful flair.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

Her run was supposed to end on May 17, but her final curtain call has shifted to Friday, May 1.

From Salon • Apr. 30, 2026

Kwon’s sentencing is a curtain call for the brash entrepreneur who was among the loudest and most influential cheerleaders for digital currencies during the 2021-22 crypto boom.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025

For most great pitchers, they’d only emerge for a curtain call.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 17, 2025

I heard my name for another curtain call.

From "The Wednesday Wars" by Gary D. Schmidt