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 verb 1 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 area
2 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 verb 1 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