reference 1 of 2

1
as in source
something mentioned in a text as providing related and especially supporting information the author's argument is interesting, but the lack of references makes me wonder if it can be proven

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in regard
relation to or concern with something specified this reply is in reference to your last question

Synonyms & Similar Words

reference

2 of 2

verb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reference
Noun
For reference, that's 20 hp less power than the ultra-fast US$11,000 Stark Varg MX, but the torque is nearly the same. New Atlas, 5 Apr. 2025 Schiff was offered the option of removing the LGBTQ reference but refused. Arthur Allen, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2025
Verb
The hospitality industry has been heavily targeted, with attackers impersonating Booking.com and sending fake emails referencing guest reviews or promotions. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, FOXNews.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Complexities are woven into intricate Kiefer’s work, referencing literature, poetry, philosophy, mythology, scientific theory, and mysticism, amplified by the technical layering of his massive canvases and installations. Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
  • Constructed from Alexander Graham Bell’s simple tetrahedron cell, the Cygnet model consists of two equilateral paper triangles, connected and illuminated by a hidden light source.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Legendary is eyeing a 2026 production start, another source adds.
    Matt Donnelly, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • So in that regard, Josh Christopher, Keshad Johnson and Isaiah Stevens likely will remain within the Heat’s realm at least through the early stages of the offseason.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2025
  • It’s designed to not only be easy to hit drives with, but also playable right off the fairway grass – behaving more like a long fairway wood in that regard.
    Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Exchange insurance information with any other parties involved, take pictures of the accident and extensively document the state of your vehicle.
    Chris Gallagher, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Acutis, who was a web designer and documented Eucharistic miracles, will be the first millennial to be made a saint.
    Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Whether leading a team, negotiating a deal, managing conflicts or mentoring someone, always treat others with respect and empathy.
    Nuno Fernandes, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Infused in all of these practices is the conviction that children are not lesser proto-adults, but fellow beings worthy of respect and agency regardless of their behavior.
    Gail Cornwall, The Atlantic, 3 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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