Main Entry:

re·fer

Pronunciation:

\ri-ˈfər\

Function:

verb

Inflected Form(s):

re·ferred; re·fer·ring

Etymology:

Middle English referren, from Anglo-French referer, referir, from Latin referre to bring back, report, refer, from re- + ferre to carry — more at bear

Date:

14th century

transitive verb1 a (1): to think of, regard, or classify within a general category or group (2): to explain in terms of a general cause b: to allot to a particular place, stage, or period c: to regard as coming from or located in a specific area2 a: to send or direct for treatment, aid, information, or decision <refer a patient to a specialist> <refer a bill back to a committee> b: to direct for testimony or guaranty as to character or abilityintransitive verb1 a: to have relation or connection : relate b: to direct attention usually by clear and specific mention <no one referred to yesterday's quarrel>2: to have recourse : glance briefly <referred frequently to his notes while speaking>

— re·fer·able \ˈre-f(ə-)rə-bəl, ri-ˈfər-ə-\ adjective

— re·fer·rer \ri-ˈfər-ər\ noun