frame of reference
noun phraseTo save this word, you'll need to log in.
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
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on frame of reference
What made you want to look up frame of reference? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Name that Thing: Flower Edition
- Name that flower
Can you spell these 10 commonly misspelled words?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Share frame of reference
Time Traveler for frame of reference
The first known use of frame of reference was in 1895
See more words from the same year