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

Related 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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of reference

Noun

This may be a reference to July's Hugging Face attack, where 700 OpenAI agents breached the security of the open-source AI platform, making 17,000 separate actions, according to the forensic logs. — Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 12 Sep. 2026

That would be a reference to 27-year-old Jacob Coxon, an AI researcher and whistleblower at Anthropic (and previously OpenAI) who resigned in protest of the unchecked danger his work poses to us all. — Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Verb

Its asymmetrical, leg-baring hem also seemed to reference Tina Turner. — Bianca Betancourt, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026

The cabin also features a number of personalized details, including James’ emblem and discrete engravings that reference the basketball player’s hometown of Akron, Ohio, and his family. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 12 Aug. 2026

Phrases Containing reference

• frame of reference