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
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as in to source
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of reference
Callum Sutherland, Time, 19 Sep. 2025
Include the reasoning for each decision and suggest how to reference paid content without giving it away.
—Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp, IndyStar, 27 Sep. 2025
That was her nickname for me—a reference to Humphrey Bogart’s character in The Maltese Falcon.
—Mark Gray, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference
Noun
Trump went on to reference the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, which was announced in July, and urged for other late-night hosts Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers to meet a similar fate.
—Callum Sutherland, Time, 19 Sep. 2025
Include the reasoning for each decision and suggest how to reference paid content without giving it away.
—Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
Verb
Some references may be out of date.
—Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp, IndyStar, 27 Sep. 2025
That was her nickname for me—a reference to Humphrey Bogart’s character in The Maltese Falcon.
—Mark Gray, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
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What's Next Chinese research ship operations in neighboring maritime zones are likely to remain a source of controversy as the country continues to strengthen its posture in the region.—
Micah McCartney,
MSNBC Newsweek,
1 Oct. 2025
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A lot of the information being funneled to him and his peers from news sources wasn't clear.—
David Ferrara,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
30 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Trotter’s impact on Bottega Veneta remains to be see in this regard, but her ability to create desire is essential in an environment with such high price points and where people are preoccupied with more than clothes.—
Kati Chitrakorn,
CNN Money,
28 Sep. 2025
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No guarantees are made with regards to results or financial gain.—
Jacob Camenker,
USA Today,
28 Sep. 2025
Verb
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In October 2023, Kristil went to police with a detailed spreadsheet documenting every interaction with her apparent stalker.—
Doc Louallen,
ABC News,
26 Sep. 2025
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When reporting bullying, parents should first contact the teacher and document any evidence.—
Erick Trevino,
AZCentral.com,
25 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Accusations that the president is being bigoted with his video posts come weeks after issues around respect between political rivals and free speech were thrust into the spotlight by the assassination of conservative activist and Turning Point USA co-founder and CEO Charlie Kirk on September 10.—
Robert Birsel,
MSNBC Newsweek,
1 Oct. 2025
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Supporters also lined up to touch their foreheads to the Aryatara's feet, a sign of respect in Hindu tradition, and offered her money and flowers.—
Kirsty Hatcher,
PEOPLE,
1 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.
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