Definition of ref
:a referee in a game or sport
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Recent Examples of ref from the Web
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Inoki ended up on top and the ref separated them straightaway.
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Though refs blow the whistle when defenders step foot in the same area code as quarterback Brandon Wimbush, the 6-3, 258-pound Hayes was credited with at least one sack and was close to a couple more.
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The ref waited for Mahal to stand, and then called for the bell, signifying the match.
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Unlike in the past, the referee no longer will be charged with making that final decision; Riveron and his crew at league headquarters will do so in consultation with the ref.
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Every time Cristiano wanted it, the ref blew for a free-kick and the game was stopped.
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A word of advice for Orlando City coach Jason Kreis: Be extremely grateful that MLS refs aren’t ACC refs.
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His right foot slid on top of the ball, studs flying up toward Martin’s leg, and the ref quickly lofted a red card.
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The bell rang, and even though the refs showed some confusion, Carmella was declared the winner.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ref.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
First Known Use of ref
1890
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