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
Kara Nesvig, Allure, 4 Nov. 2024
Holding up a phone to the microphone, a pre-recorded Pfeiffer then introduced members of The Marching Cobras marching ensemble, a reference to a 2019 work of the artist’s at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.
—Sam Falb, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2024
Adam Tschorn, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024
In the column, Hayes referenced Embiid’s late brother Arthur and his 4-year-old son.
—Homero De La Fuente, CNN, 3 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference 
Noun
For reference, here's Diana in the necklace in 1987.
—Kara Nesvig, Allure, 4 Nov. 2024
Holding up a phone to the microphone, a pre-recorded Pfeiffer then introduced members of The Marching Cobras marching ensemble, a reference to a 2019 work of the artist’s at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.
—Sam Falb, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2024
Verb
The ceramic shakers are designed so the base of the rabbit fits neatly in the top of the hat, referencing the classic illusion.
—Adam Tschorn, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024
In the column, Hayes referenced Embiid’s late brother Arthur and his 4-year-old son.
—Homero De La Fuente, CNN, 3 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
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The general public has been convinced that cultural diversity is the only way to achieve DEI, only to further divide people and divert attention from the real source of DEI: economics.Letters To The Editor, The Mercury News, 10 Nov. 2024
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Chickpeas, sesame seeds, and dark green vegetables, such as kale, arugula, and broccoli, are good sources of calcium.Jianying Zhang, Discover Magazine, 8 Nov. 2024
Noun
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But the court also stated that there were triable issues of fact with regard to the duration of the bite.Jason Green, The Mercury News, 17 Nov. 2024
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Subcompacts like the $17,000 Mitsubishi Mirage and the $16,400 Nissan Versa simply can’t compete with the aforementioned laws of physics with regard to crash protection as well as compact and midsize cars and SUVs.Jim Gorzelany, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Verb
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Despite the gargantuan size, the coral has never been documented.Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 14 Nov. 2024
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Of course, the president-elect’s long-standing attraction to Putin is endlessly documented.Trudy Rubin, Twin Cities, 13 Nov. 2024
Noun
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But Musk has already gained since the election in one respect: Tesla’s share price has risen more than 15% from last Wednesday’s opening price, outpacing the 1.8% growth in the S&P 500 over the same period.David Ingram, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
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Tonight: Show respect. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) ★★★★ Discussions with partners, spouses and even members of the general public will be lively today.Georgia Nicols, The Denver Post, 8 Nov. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
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