The term "crank call" refers to an annoying or harassing phone call made with the intention of upsetting the person on the other end of the line. There are several synonyms that can be used to describe this type of call, including prank call, nuisance call, and hoax call. Another common term is "fake call," which is often used to describe a call made to deceive someone into thinking they are receiving a legitimate call from someone they know or trust. Whatever the term used, crank calls can be incredibly frustrating for the person receiving them, and are often illegal if made repeatedly or with the intent to cause harm.