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
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.
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 Overall organizational or commercial strategy including value proposition, positioning (target, frame of reference, benefit, support/attributes, character/attitude/voice,) posture. George Bradt, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025 Each is in their own frame of reference, but Terra on Earth, Stella in a spacecraft traveling past our planet. Robert Lea, Space.com, 21 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for frame of reference

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of frame of reference was in 1895

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Cite this Entry

“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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