reference 1 of 2

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

Relevance
2
as in regard
relation to or concern with something specified this reply is in reference to your last question

Synonyms & Similar Words

reference

2 of 2

verb

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 reference
Noun
For reference, that's 20 hp less power than the ultra-fast US$11,000 Stark Varg MX, but the torque is nearly the same. New Atlas, 5 Apr. 2025 Schiff was offered the option of removing the LGBTQ reference but refused. Arthur Allen, CNN Money, 4 Apr. 2025
Verb
The hospitality industry has been heavily targeted, with attackers impersonating Booking.com and sending fake emails referencing guest reviews or promotions. Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, FOXNews.com, 27 Mar. 2025 Complexities are woven into intricate Kiefer’s work, referencing literature, poetry, philosophy, mythology, scientific theory, and mysticism, amplified by the technical layering of his massive canvases and installations. Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
  • Constructed from Alexander Graham Bell’s simple tetrahedron cell, the Cygnet model consists of two equilateral paper triangles, connected and illuminated by a hidden light source.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Legendary is eyeing a 2026 production start, another source adds.
    Matt Donnelly, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • It’s designed to not only be easy to hit drives with, but also playable right off the fairway grass – behaving more like a long fairway wood in that regard.
    Scott Kramer, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • So in that regard, Josh Christopher, Keshad Johnson and Isaiah Stevens likely will remain within the Heat’s realm at least through the early stages of the offseason.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 4 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Michael Palin, who documented the original concert in his diary, also appears.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The damage the Trump administration has done to science in a few short months is both well documented and incalculable, but in recent days that assault has taken an alarming twist.
    Brian Barrett, Wired News, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Whether leading a team, negotiating a deal, managing conflicts or mentoring someone, always treat others with respect and empathy.
    Nuno Fernandes, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • The actress also provides practical advice on everything from fostering mutual respect in relationships and navigating friendships, to the keys to attracting a high-profile partner.
    Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 3 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

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