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refer

verb

ri-ˈfər How to pronounce refer (audio)
Definition of refernext
as in to apply
to have a relation or connection I don't think that rule of play refers to this particular situation

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 refer Like many places in former colonial territories, Hempstead’s name refers back to the homeland of those who colonized and settled in the region. — Ashley Gardini, JSTOR Daily, 9 Sep. 2026 The White House referred back the president’s comments when asked about the slide's deployment. — Isabella Murray, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2026 Expanding access requires stronger communication between community providers and health systems, along with greater clinical expertise to identify and refer eligible patients. — Jigar Thakkar, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2026 The county commissioners referred the measure to the ballot last month. — John Aguilar, Denver Post, 8 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refer
  1. apply
  2. relate
  3. pertain
Verb
  • Some exceptions to the law do apply, including health conditions, relocation for a spouse’s job change or providing care for a sick family member.
    — Maven Navarro, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Judge Louis will consider whether the treaty applies to the case and determine if the evidence establishes probable cause.
    — Bill Chappell, NPR, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • Some contracts also limit coverage for rust, corrosion or sediment-related problems.
    — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 14 Sep. 2026
  • And though the plot of Kidman’s abusive boyfriend Jimmy Angelov (played by Goran Visnjic) felt jarring to some, Dunne personally related, as his sister, actress Dominique Dunne, was murdered by her ex in 1982.
    — Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 13 Sep. 2026
Definition of relate
Verb
  • The web portal will launch with a glossary of some 180 terms pertaining to AI designed to bring standardization to what has been an unruly moving target.
    — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Those are some of the main items pertaining to working conditions that were codified in a memorandum of understanding between the NHL and NHL Players’ Association in June 2025.
    — Chris Johnston, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Definition of pertain

Phrases Containing refer

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Cite this Entry

“Refer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refer. Accessed 16 Sep. 2026.

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