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 McConnell referred further inquiries about the incident to ICE. — ABC News, 11 Oct. 2026 Justice Brett Kavanaugh quickly rejected the appeal without seeing any need to refer it to his colleagues, and the matter appeared to be closed—for an hour or so, anyway. — Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2026 Cases referred for review may never result in litigation, and complaints that are filed do not necessarily lead to citizenship revocation. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 9 Oct. 2026 The Fed referred questions about the committee to Cook's attorneys. — Matt Peterson,luke Fountain, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refer
  1. apply
  2. relate
  3. pertain
Verb
  • Haynie may have been responding to reports specific to Syracuse, but his response applies to all colleges.
    — Reynald Fasciaux, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Because the workers had troubles, that's why this settlement has been applied.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 8 Oct. 2026
Definition of apply
Verb
  • Benski and Clifford are currently in dispute with Vice over payments related the sale of Pulse.
    — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 Oct. 2026
  • Vollmann was also pessimistic, relating that feeling comes from more than America’s current political issues, but also from the world’s environmental problems.
    — Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of relate
Verb
  • In one case, California Volunteers delayed giving federal auditors records pertaining to three grant awards for six months.
    — Lia Russell, Sacbee.com, 8 Oct. 2026
  • Anyone with any relevant information pertaining to the incident is asked to contact the Bloomfield Police Department.
    — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 4 Oct. 2026
Definition of pertain

Phrases Containing refer

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refeeds
refer
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Cite this Entry

“Refer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refer. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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