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
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as in to source
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of reference
David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 8 Nov. 2025
Harbour also recently made headlines following the release of estranged wife Lily Allen's latest album, West End Girl, which contained references many interpreted as pointing toward alleged unfaithfulness on Harbour's part, though the actor isn't explicitly named in the lyrics.
—Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Nov. 2025
Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025
The Alchemy could be named after the song on Swift's album The Tortured Poets Department, which has been widely speculated to reference the tight end.
—Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference
Noun
Secondly, the story contains no references to politics as to whether the United States was justified in starting the Iraq War over 20 years ago.
—David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 8 Nov. 2025
Harbour also recently made headlines following the release of estranged wife Lily Allen's latest album, West End Girl, which contained references many interpreted as pointing toward alleged unfaithfulness on Harbour's part, though the actor isn't explicitly named in the lyrics.
—Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Nov. 2025
Verb
The order does not reference Trump or any specific investigation.
—Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025
The Alchemy could be named after the song on Swift's album The Tortured Poets Department, which has been widely speculated to reference the tight end.
—Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
-
But for much of the past two centuries, Port Renfrew’s main source of employment was not promoting trees but rather chopping them down—particularly, giant, old-growth trees that fetched the highest value.—
Brad Badelt,
Outside,
11 Nov. 2025
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One of the things that particularly irked fans was a report after the trade that slammed Dončić’s conditioning, with ESPN citing sources inside the franchise revealing frustration with his diet.—
Kyle Feldscher,
CNN Money,
11 Nov. 2025
Noun
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In regards to the 2025 slate underperforming, that’s a full confession by the new C-suite, taking a swipe at the previous administration’s lineup.—
Anthony D'Alessandro,
Deadline,
10 Nov. 2025
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No guarantees are made with regards to results or financial gain.—
Jacob Camenker,
USA Today,
9 Nov. 2025
Verb
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Her bond with Simone Biles has been well documented, but Chiles lights up when talking about other unexpected connections that also keep her grounded.—
Essence,
Essence,
6 Nov. 2025
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In 2019, Nick, Kevin and Joe reconnected and documented their reunion in the documentary, Chasing Happiness.—
Caroline Blair,
PEOPLE,
6 Nov. 2025
Noun
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Together, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of respect, safety, and integrity for all participants, staff, and stakeholders.—
Megan Cartwright,
MSNBC Newsweek,
5 Nov. 2025
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They're grounded enough to treat everyone — from the CEO to the front desk — with the same respect.—
Jessica Neal,
CNBC,
5 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 16 Nov. 2025.
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