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
as in to source
Synonyms & Similar Words
Examples 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
Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 12 Dec. 2024
These are unique, permanent references used to consistently identify a taxonomic group regardless of name changes.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 12 Dec. 2024
Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 13 Dec. 2024
The headline shown in the video is from an article that references a 2020 research paper.
—Kate S. Petersen, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference 
Noun
One Christian reference is the Last Supper, at which the 13th guest, Judas Iscariot, attends before betraying Jesus Christ.
—Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 12 Dec. 2024
These are unique, permanent references used to consistently identify a taxonomic group regardless of name changes.
—The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 12 Dec. 2024
Verb
Many referenced the change in presidency as a reason to get a contract across the finish line.
—Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 13 Dec. 2024
The headline shown in the video is from an article that references a 2020 research paper.
—Kate S. Petersen, USA TODAY, 12 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
-
Fisherman Aesthetic Trend Oceanic influences have served as an endless source of inspiration.Stacia Datskovska, WWD, 17 Dec. 2024
-
With human donor organs in short supply, some researchers are exploring the use of pigs as a potential source.Emily Mullin, WIRED, 17 Dec. 2024
Noun
-
With regard to controlling that crucial body of water, a year ago this month Mohammad Reza Naqdi issued a threat.Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
-
What’s important is that the rate of acceptance with regard to ChatGPT hardly won’t stop with ChatGPT, or for that matter, TikTok.John Tamny, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024
Verb
-
Since 2011, the Syrian Network for Human Rights has documented more than 112,000 disappearances—men, women, and children arbitrarily arrested and imprisoned with no formal or legal justification.Anne Applebaum, The Atlantic, 8 Dec. 2024
-
The second trend taking place in Europe is well documented—that cruise ships are becoming less and less welcome in European ports due to overcrowding issues.Alex Ledsom, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024
Noun
-
Two and a Half Men creator Chuck Lorre has nothing but respect for Charlie Sheen.Joelle Goldstein, People.com, 11 Dec. 2024
-
The subcommittee’s Democratic minority produced its own report, which is more measured in all respects, though not entirely devoid of problems.Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 10 Dec. 2024
Thesaurus Entries Near reference
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share