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
His last review, which examined misconduct allegations against Russell Brand, only referenced job titles. Jake Kanter, Deadline, 12 July 2025 Roy referenced a Hill Country foundation that had raised $30 million. Dana Farrington, NPR, 12 July 2025
Verb
For reference, Netflix began development of One Piece way back in January 2020. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 The alert has pictures of the products customers can use to reference. Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
  • The senior bonus deduction, Watson points out, applies to any source of taxable income that a taxpayer who is 65 or older has and may not necessarily eliminate all tax on Social Security benefits.
    Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 14 July 2025
  • One anonymous source donated 40 units, but since then, White said, there have been few, if any, such offerings.
    Jerry Shnay, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • The front office went out of its way to give the inside linebacker group a bit of a pass in regard to the team’s historically bad run defense.
    Mike Kaye July 9, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2025
  • This was again measured with regard to real-life celebrity cheating scandals.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • Cadillac has overcome several challenges to enter the F1 grid, and as a result, the American outfit aims to document its entire journey and showcase it to the world before its F1 Grand Prix debut at Melbourne's Albert Park in March 2026.
    Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
  • Hudson, who has been vacationing around Europe with her family, recently documented her trip to Greece on social media.
    Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • Russia, on the other hand, is mainly viewed as a security risk, particularly in Europe where its yearslong war with Ukraine has raised concerns about respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty.
    Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 9 July 2025
  • At the heart of this movement is Alma Finca, a Mexican orange liqueur crafted with fresh, local ingredients and a deep respect for the land.
    Gina Pace, Forbes.com, 9 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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