Synonyms of reference

reference 1 of 2

noun

ˈre-fərn(t)s 

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

• source
• authority
• quotation
• citation
• extract
• footnote
• excerpt
• caption
• cross-reference
• note

2

as in regard

relation to or concern with something specified

this reply is in reference to your last question

Synonyms & Similar Words

• regard
• respect

reference

2 of 2

verb

as in to source

Synonyms & Similar Words

• source
• document
• validate
• corroborate
• specify
• illustrate
• touch (on or upon)
• refer (to)
• bear out
• substantiate
• instance
• represent
• name
• mention
• exemplify
• cite
• quote
• advert (to)
• adduce

Examples of reference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

La Macchia was shaping orecchiette pasta by hand (orecchiette translates into little ear, a reference to the shape of the pasta). —Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 30 Sep. 2024

For her part, Swift has never confirmed nor denied the lyric being a 30 Rock reference, but the 14-time Grammy winner does love her Easter eggs and pop culture references, after all. —Lauren Huff, EW.com, 30 Sep. 2024

Verb

Bardem referenced his Silver Shell win for best actor 30 years ago, nearly to the day, in 1994. —Lily Ford, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Sep. 2024

French Gates said, referencing CEOs and tech entrepreneurs who promote, in her eyes, a form of performative sleep deprivation. —Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 19 Sep. 2024

Phrases Containing reference

• frame of reference