distress call n an internationally recognized signal sent out by a ship or plane indicating that help is needed Synonym(s) distress signal
News & Articles distress call Coast Guard, good Samaritan rescue sailors 8 miles off Ocracoke Coast Guard crews from Hatteras and Ocracoke responded to a distress call in Pamlico Sound to rescue two sailors whose boat was taking on water. June 17, 2013 - The News & Observer Body of kayaker recovered from Gunpowder River Maryland authorities say they've recovered the body of a kayaker from the Gunpowder River, one day after receiving a distress call. June 16, 2013 - WTOP Radio Washington, DC