reference 1 of 2

noun

ˈre-fərn(t)s How to pronounce reference (audio)
Definition of referencenext
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

as in to source

Related Words

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
Pugh’s dress reflected the Asian references seen throughout Ralph’s spring 2026 couture collection. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 30 July 2026 Mainstream third spaces rarely account for the specific rhythms, values, and shared references of a diaspora, and Musly Club is betting that people will travel further and pay more for a room where none of that needs to be explained. — Olivia Shalhoup, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
Verb
Meanwhile, Cassell and her Martians recall the pulpy Martian warrior civilization depicted in a series of Edgar Rice Burroughs novels that kicks off with A Princess of Mars, which the episode will later directly reference. — Keith Phipps, Vulture, 23 July 2026 Chalamet went on to reference billion-dollar-grossing blockbusters, such as Oppenheimer and Barbie. — Xochitl Gonzalez, The Atlantic, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
  1. source
  2. regard
  3. document
  4. respect
Noun
  • Instead, sources familiar with the situation pointed to Trump’s history of dropping past animosity with Republicans who appease him as one reason Pirro still has a shot of lasting beyond this week’s tenuous moment.
    — Mabinty Quarshie, The Washington Examiner, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Recent research found that shoppers referred by large language models generate 53% more revenue per visit than shoppers arriving through non-AI sources, underscoring how quickly AI is becoming another front door to brands.
    — Dani Mariano, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Definition of source
Noun
  • So, in that regard, there is a lot of deference given to the executive branch to reach those determinations, including determinations that may be policy driven.
    — Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 31 July 2026
  • Ford is leading all automakers in this regard, with 55 campaigns affecting more than 12 million vehicles during the first half of 2026.
    — Jim Gorzelany, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
Definition of regard
Verb
  • For decades now, Widder has been documenting the light show created by marine animals that mix chemicals in their bodies to generate bioluminescence.
    — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 1 Aug. 2026
  • In a moment well documented over the decades, one of the hunters mistook LeMond for a duck and shot him.
    — Tom Campbell, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of document
Noun
  • With all due respect to Interstate 20 in DFW, 635 in Dallas, I-10 in Houston or Loop 1604 in San Antonio, I-35 in Austin ranks as one of the most challenging in Texas.
    — Mac Engel July 31, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026
  • The decision has been made with the utmost respect for the producers, the creative team and the entire company.
    — Greg Evans, Deadline, 30 July 2026
Definition of respect

Phrases Containing reference

Browse Nearby Words

referees
reference
referenced
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Cite this Entry

“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on reference

Nglish: Translation of reference for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reference

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