refer to

verb

referred to; referring to; refers to

1

: to look at or in (something) for information

She often refers to her notes when giving a speech.

Please refer to our website for more information.

2

: to have a direct connection or relationship to (something)

The word "finch" refers to a kind of bird.

The numbers shown in the text refer to footnotes at the bottom of the page.

3

: to talk about or write about (someone or something) especially briefly : to mention (someone or something) in speech or in writing

No one referred to the incident.

Examples of refer to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sister Claudine, the kindly nun who takes Suzanna to visit her mother after her grandfather’s death, is referred to as Sister. —James Wood, New Yorker, 4 May 2026

The term chicha refers to a style of cumbia, a popular Colombian music genre, that was adapted and transformed in Peru in the 1960s and ’70s, incorporating electric guitars, synthesizers, and elements of rock. —Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 4 May 2026

Hantavirus refers to a strain of viruses spread by rodents through their bodily fluids and excrement. —Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 4 May 2026

Ayton has previously referred to Smart as a brother’s keeper, a voice of leadership during the 27-year-old big man’s up-and-down season. —Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 4 May 2026

Rhymes for refer to

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue