refer

verb

ri-ˈfər How to pronounce refer (audio)
Definition of refernext
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

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 refer The Coast Guard referred questions about the details of the rescue operation to Newport Beach Lifeguards. — Nicole Acevedo, NBC news, 9 Nov. 2026 Asked about whether there was a home visit this week, DCF referred The Connecticut Mirror to previous statements about their investigation that did not include that information. — Laura Tillman, Hartford Courant, 7 Nov. 2026 Byrne did not comment, but referred questions to Greenberger. — Katie Langford, Denver Post, 6 Nov. 2026 When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Fox News referred PEOPLE to Baier’s posts. — Liam Quinn, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refer
  1. apply
  2. relate
  3. pertain
Verb
  • Proponents say the measure applies to eight categories of projects California communities need to expand housing, improve civic infrastructure and promote green energy.
    — Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026
  • On the other hand, many of these albums are timeless and continue to resonate, and today’s streaming culture has embraced exhuming catalog music — something that applies not only to old singles, but to old albums.
    — Eric Renner Brown, Billboard, 4 Nov. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • The researchers point out that the mat was dominated by compounds derived from photosynthetic pigments, while the extract’s porphyrins were overwhelmingly heme-related.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Flagstaff police said that a second man, whose identity hasn’t been released, also was found dead Monday in a drainage area, and that the death appeared to be weather-related, pending an official determination of cause and manner of death.
    — Christopher Weber, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of relate
Verb
  • Miami Beach code compliance officers also checked on the polling station at least six times for possible loud music and signage code adherence pertaining to Basabe, although no violations were issued, records show.
    — Sofia Saric, Miami Herald, 3 Nov. 2026
  • Means ruled earlier this year that Kay could introduce new details pertaining to the evidence that led to his 2022 conviction.
    — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of pertain

Phrases Containing refer

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refer
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Cite this Entry

“Refer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refer. Accessed 11 Nov. 2026.

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