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
Relevance
as in to source
Related Words
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 reference
Jon O'Brien,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
There’s a big Ophelia reference in the film, and that was really fun.
—
William Earl,
Variety,
26 June 2026
Senior Television,
Los Angeles Times,
11 June 2026
If a site's code is difficult to read and interpret, AI systems may be less likely to surface or reference that content.
—
Malana Vantyler,
USA Today,
4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for reference
Noun
There are aspects that haven’t aged well, like the voiceover provided by Martin Bashir, and the many references specific to turn-of-the-century UK.
—
Jon O'Brien,
Vulture,
26 June 2026
There’s a big Ophelia reference in the film, and that was really fun.
—
William Earl,
Variety,
26 June 2026
Verb
You guys reference the film a lot on your podcast and Shrek has also been a figure on the awards show, including this year.
—
Senior Television,
Los Angeles Times,
11 June 2026
If a site's code is difficult to read and interpret, AI systems may be less likely to surface or reference that content.
—
Malana Vantyler,
USA Today,
4 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
-
The source claimed that the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star checked into the facility voluntarily.
-
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are expected to take over Madison Square Garden for two events celebrating their wedding, ABC News and CNN reported on June 30, citing sources familiar with the plans.
Noun
-
No one has a higher success rate in that regard than Pixar, and luckily for me, my kid is a fiend for any movie made by the Disney animation studio.
-
As well as the latest and greatest of the Adult Swim slate, Head of Development Cameron Tang spoke with regards to their shorts program Smalls and its role in developing new series and turning artists into series creators.
Verb
-
The pathologist documented extensive bruising and hemorrhage involving Joanna’s abdomen, flanks, back, buttocks, thighs and lower extremities, according to the affidavit.
-
The involvement of non-Shiite communities in Muharram rituals has long been documented across South Asia, including among groups known as Hussaini Brahmins, whose traditions have incorporated elements associated with both Hinduism and Shiite Islam.
Noun
-
There was enough notice for other cast members to swing by and pay their respects, too.
-
To write about the Earth like that meant showing it some respect, even if the form of my respect was not grammatically acceptable.
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
