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frame of reference

noun phrase

Definition of frame of reference

1 : an arbitrary set of axes with reference to which the position or motion of something is described or physical laws are formulated
2 : a set of ideas, conditions, or assumptions that determine how something will be approached, perceived, or understood
  • a Marxian frame of reference

First Known Use of frame of reference

1895

in the meaning defined at sense 1

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Other Psychology Terms

fetish, hypochondria, intelligence, mania, narcissism, neurosis, pathological, psychosis, schadenfreude, subliminal

Learn More about frame of reference

  1. Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about frame of reference

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