as in to apply
to have a relation or connection
I don't think that rule of play refers to this particular situation
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of refer
Under the new ordinance, the city would not be able to investigate claims of discrimination at all, instead referring residents who make complaints to other resources, or to applicable state and federal agencies.
—
Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Feb. 2026
Duren did not say how the fight started, referring reporters instead to the video replays.
—Steve Reed, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
State child welfare workers declined to open investigations into abuse or neglect in these instances, yet referred them to law enforcement anyway.
—Shoshana Walter, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2026
When contacted for comment, the White House referred TIME to the DOJ.
—Rebecca Schneid, Time, 10 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for refer
Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Feb. 2026
Duren did not say how the fight started, referring reporters instead to the video replays.
—Steve Reed, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
State child welfare workers declined to open investigations into abuse or neglect in these instances, yet referred them to law enforcement anyway.
—Shoshana Walter, CBS News, 10 Feb. 2026
When contacted for comment, the White House referred TIME to the DOJ.
—Rebecca Schneid, Time, 10 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for refer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refer
Verb
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Eight of these units were connected to each other and a linear actuator was installed at one end of the line to apply the force needed to activate the elastocaloric effect.—
IEEE Spectrum,
IEEE Spectrum,
5 Feb. 2026
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Regardless of the type, apply the fertilizer in late winter to prepare your tree for the upcoming growing season.—
Emily Hayes,
Martha Stewart,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
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They’re related, sure, but key differences exist based on the inventory and distribution.—
Jon Wilner,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
8 Feb. 2026
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The driver and the child’s family are not related, police said.—
Rocco Parascandola,
New York Daily News,
8 Feb. 2026
Verb
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Delays and cancellations in plane travel were also caused by air traffic control issues, which won't happen this time around since the shutdown won't pertain to the Transportation Department.—
Zachary Schermele,
USA Today,
13 Feb. 2026
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Social media users weren't quick to forget Brooklyn's past allegations, and asked Cruz a few pointed questions pertaining to his brother.—
Tracy Wright,
FOXNews.com,
12 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Refer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refer. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
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