referral

noun

re·​fer·​ral ri-ˈfər-əl 

1

: the act, action, or an instance of referring

gave the patient a referral to a specialist

2

: one that is referred

Examples of referral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Getting the timing and referrals right Walters stresses that getting your application in within the first 48 hours is crucial. —Jennifer Liu, CNBC, 20 Mar. 2025

Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. —Fernando Cervantes Jr., USA Today, 1 Apr. 2025

Discount publishers also win by getting a commission on the referral, while credit card issuers will strengthen customer loyalty. —Frank Minervini, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Much of the team’s success is driven by referrals, from clients who appreciate the discretion, efficiency, and expertise the Assouline Team brings to the table. —Elliman Insider Team, Miami Herald, 31 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing referral

• self-referral

Rhymes for referral

• deferral
• epidural
• postdoctoral
• predoctoral
• neral
• squirrel
• sural

Kids Definition

referral

noun

re·​fer·​ral ri-ˈfər-əl 

: the act or an instance of referring

Medical Definition

referral

noun

re·​fer·​ral ri-ˈfər-əl 

1

: the process of directing or redirecting (as a medical case or a patient) to an appropriate specialist or agency for definitive treatment

2

: an individual that is referred

Legal Definition

referral

noun

re·​fer·​ral ri-ˈfər-əl 

: the act or an instance of referring

appealed the referral of the bill to the Budget Committee