reference 1 of 2

Definition of referencenext
1
as in source
something mentioned in a text as providing related and especially supporting information the author's argument is interesting, but the lack of references makes me wonder if it can be proven

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance
2
as in regard
relation to or concern with something specified this reply is in reference to your last question

Synonyms & Similar Words

reference

2 of 2

verb

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of reference
Noun
Point references are in PPR unless otherwise noted. Kc Joyner, New York Times, 15 May 2026 That was a reference to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, where KC won Super Bowl LIV. Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 15 May 2026
Verb
The two chapters on machine realism, for instance, reference his and Kate Crawford’s viral 2019 project ImageNet Roulette, which invited users to upload images of themselves that ImageNet would then label. Louis Bury, ARTnews.com, 1 May 2026 Conservatives continue to repeat the line, years later, which is why Barnett was able to reference it as shorthand. Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
  • The four-time NFL MVP agreed to a one-year contract worth $22 million guaranteed with the Steelers on Saturday, a source confirmed.
    Armando Salguero OutKick, FOXNews.com, 17 May 2026
  • The source reporting referenced above was written and edited entirely by journalists.
    Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • So, yes, there likely will be chatter in that regard should the Cavaliers fall short with their current build.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 17 May 2026
  • In this regard, said one of the influencers, an Israeli-American named Miriam Strauss, the boos are actually in dialogue with Bettan.
    Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2026
Verb
  • Save Girls’ Sports activists gathered outside Yorba Linda High School in protest, which OutKick documented firsthand through conversations with parents and attendees at the meet.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
  • Over the last 20 years, scientists have documented an increasing number of juvenile great white sharks cruising waters off Southern California beaches.
    Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2026
Noun
  • Hamilton may face Senate scrutiny over his lack of experience leading an emergency management agency, though his defense of FEMA’s federal role has earned respect among disaster management professionals.
    Gabriela Aoun Angueira, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026
  • By bringing collective bargaining to these spaces, IATSE is helping set standards for fair pay, safety and respect as the industry continues shifting and adopting new distribution models.
    Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 11 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 18 May. 2026.

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