frame of reference
noun phrase
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
Examples of frame of reference in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The nose bears a family resemblance to the Ariya, and the body style is sort of a crossover, sort of a fastback sedan, depending on your frame of reference.
—
Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
What outlaw road movies did you and your crew use as a frame of reference?
—Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025
Albert Einstein’s special theory of relativity noted that simultaneity depends on the observer’s frame of reference and can vary with motion.
—Petar Popovski, IEEE Spectrum, 13 Aug. 2025
For frame of reference, the fastest high-school girls’ 100 recorded in North Carolina in 2025 so far is 11.43.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 13 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for frame of reference
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.
Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 12 Sep. 2025
What outlaw road movies did you and your crew use as a frame of reference?
—Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025
Albert Einstein’s special theory of relativity noted that simultaneity depends on the observer’s frame of reference and can vary with motion.
—Petar Popovski, IEEE Spectrum, 13 Aug. 2025
For frame of reference, the fastest high-school girls’ 100 recorded in North Carolina in 2025 so far is 11.43.
—Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 13 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for frame of reference
Cite this Entry
“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 28 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share