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
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as in to source
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Recent Examples of reference
David Ingram, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
Firefly can generate images from text prompts or based on uploaded reference images.
—PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024
Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 14 Nov. 2024
For example, in Sergei Rachmaninoff's Prelude No. 5 in G Major, Kasman Laude references a trill that moves from a whole tone to a half tone — a difference that's miniscule physically but enormous emotionally.
—Domenica Bongiovanni, The Indianapolis Star, 7 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference 
Noun
The name of the agency, DOGE for short, is a reference to a meme and a cryptocurrency associated with Musk.
—David Ingram, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
Firefly can generate images from text prompts or based on uploaded reference images.
—PCMAG, 12 Nov. 2024
Verb
Cunningham asked, referencing messages regarding deportation that some Southern High students received.
—Krista Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 14 Nov. 2024
For example, in Sergei Rachmaninoff's Prelude No. 5 in G Major, Kasman Laude references a trill that moves from a whole tone to a half tone — a difference that's miniscule physically but enormous emotionally.
—Domenica Bongiovanni, The Indianapolis Star, 7 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
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In many places in Texas, plain tap water is delicious, whether derived from surface, underground or cistern sources.Michael Barnes, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024
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The physical model was inspired by resonance chambers–a structure that enhances the transfer of energy from a sound source, like the string of a guitar.Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
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And in regard to the wolves and flowers, this unique interaction can’t be seen anywhere else in the world, Lai tells the New York Times.Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Nov. 2024
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Here are a few approaches that may help in this regard.Jay Sullivan, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024
Verb
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Brittany has continued her gym workouts throughout her pregnancy and has documented the training sessions on her social media.Escher Walcott, People.com, 23 Nov. 2024
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Its unusual harvesting methods were documented by the ancient historian Herodotus. Plant of the Month Plant of the Month: Cassava Cassava can grow in hot climates with little rainfall.JSTOR Daily, JSTOR Daily, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
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John Thorrington was on the other side of the table, representing the players, and both men came away from the experience with respect for the other.Kevin Baxter, Los Angeles Times, 29 Nov. 2024
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The Compact evinces a firm respect for scarce counter and fridge space.Matthew Korfhage, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2024
Thesaurus Entries Near reference
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 4 Dec. 2024.
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