frame of reference

noun phrase

: an arbitrary set of axes with reference to which the position or motion of something is described or physical laws are formulated

: a set of ideas, conditions, or assumptions that determine how something will be approached, perceived, or understood

a Marxian frame of reference

Examples of frame of reference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Any other frame of reference would just throw them into malfunction. —

Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 The atmosphere is a fluid within a rotating frame of reference. —

Marshall Shepherd, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024 This class is arguably without a frame of reference about a time before the culture wars and worldwide conflicts existed, and their first year of college is alongside divisive moments in the 2024 U.S. Presidential election. —

Eric Wood, Forbes, 6 Sep. 2024 The questions and concerns weighing on our children and grandchildren, after all, should be a frame of reference for us all. —

Rosanna Xia, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for frame of reference

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of frame of reference was in 1895

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Frame of reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frame%20of%20reference. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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