ref

1 of 2

noun

ˈref 

: a referee in a game or sport

ref

2 of 2

abbreviation

1

reference

2

refunding

Examples of ref in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The refs did what they are paid to do, try to keep the game under control. — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2026

Yet stunningly, the three refs ignored the infraction in real time. — Candace Buckner, New York Times, 27 June 2026

Their teammates came forward for an arguing match before the ref pulled out the yellow to get things under control. — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 25 June 2026

No matter where the ball was kicked or passed up and down the field, even after the Saudi’s surprise first half goal, many eyes were on the refs. — Miami Herald, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1890, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ref

• chef
• clef
• deaf

Kids Definition

ref

noun

ˈref

: referee entry 1 sense 2