references 1 of 2

Definition of referencesnext
plural of reference
1
as in sources
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
2
as in regards
relation to or concern with something specified this reply is in reference to your last question

Synonyms & Similar Words

references

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of reference

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 references
Noun
The 31-year-old’s design incorporates a number of Texas references, including a longhorn, bluebonnets, pecan trees, prickly pears and even the Texas Star Ferris Wheel. Travis Pinson, Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026 None of the sci-fi references demanded by the Dune-verse or the high art of fashion week. Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 17 Mar. 2026 The comedy and cultural references, however, will be distinctly British. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 17 Mar. 2026 The doc references politics and history where needed but focuses on the family as much as possible, and that is by design. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 15 Mar. 2026 Nisos gathered that the workers were likely based in China and used only each other as references in their job applications. Lisa Cavazuti, NBC news, 15 Mar. 2026 My students are required to use numerous photographic references for their pieces. Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026 Through tonight’s ceremony, there were references to the international makeup of the nominees, the power of movies to unite and the first-time achievements of diverse winners. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 15 Mar. 2026 Meticulous and never ostentatious, his work displays refined elegance, luxurious detailing, exacting craftsmanship, historical references, and a sumptuous materiality. Jennifer Baum Lagdameo, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for references
Noun
  • Soft music, meditation, or prayer can also be good sources of peace.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Mar. 2026
  • The officials stressed that there is still time to solve the problem and that the embassy and the State Department were looking at potential solutions, including possibly importing fuel from private sources if the Cubans allow it.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 14 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • That’s why an X-ray telescope that would be superior in those regards has so much discovery potential just awaiting it.
    Big Think, Big Think, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Black & Gold supporters can offer their kind regards to Alajuelense in person on Tuesday, when the 31-time top flight Costa Rican winners visit BMO Stadium for the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16.
    Josh Gross, Daily News, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Ask for a review of the legal presence documents the DMV has on file.
    Ashley Sharp, CBS News, 6 Mar. 2026
  • Ricciardia documents his final journey with an acerbic sense of humor, punctuated by Benna’s stop-motion animation.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 6 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Relatives of Altman, along with CFD firefighters and CPD officers, gathered at the hospital Tuesday morning to pay their respects before a procession brought Altman's remains from Stroger Hospital to the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office nearby.
    Elyssa Kaufman, CBS News, 17 Mar. 2026
  • Joachim Trier approaches to pay his respects.
    Rachel Handler, Vulture, 16 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“References.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/references. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on references

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster