ref

1 of 2

noun

: a referee in a game or sport

ref

2 of 2

abbreviation

1
reference
2
refunding

Examples of ref in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Noun
The Chronographe Rattrapante ref. Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 28 Aug. 2025 An earlier study, published in 2018, established that the moth relies on Earth’s magnetic field to direct its migration (ref). Grrlscientist, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025 The ref didn’t respond to it or whatnot. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 22 Aug. 2025 The refs assessed the penalty from the Patriots’ 32-yard line to the Patriots’ 27-yard line. Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 22 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ref

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ref was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ref.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ref. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

ref

noun
ˈref
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!