refer to
phrasal 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
For regions like Burgundy, Grand Cru refers to the most prestigious vineyards known for producing exceptional-quality wines with unique characteristics reflective of their terroir.
—
Rachel King, Forbes, 8 Sep. 2024
His comments referred to concerns about Russian meddling in the 2016 election, when groups linked to the Kremlin used social media networks and paid ads on Facebook and other platforms to support Trump.
—David Klepper, Los Angeles Times, 7 Sep. 2024
Still wondering what the film’s irreverent-sounding title refers to?
—Peter Debruge, Variety, 6 Sep. 2024
Still, some right-wing influencers featured on the channel have confirmed that Tenet is the company being referred to in court documents.
—Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 6 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for refer to 
Rachel King, Forbes, 8 Sep. 2024
His comments referred to concerns about Russian meddling in the 2016 election, when groups linked to the Kremlin used social media networks and paid ads on Facebook and other platforms to support Trump.
—David Klepper, Los Angeles Times, 7 Sep. 2024
Still wondering what the film’s irreverent-sounding title refers to?
—Peter Debruge, Variety, 6 Sep. 2024
Still, some right-wing influencers featured on the channel have confirmed that Tenet is the company being referred to in court documents.
—Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 6 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for refer to
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'refer to.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near refer to
Cite this Entry
“Refer to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refer%20to. Accessed 16 Sep. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share