reference — the action of mentioning or alluding to something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the action of mentioning or alluding to something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈrefərəns/
Example Sentences
- The professor's reference to pizza during a math lecture confused everyone.
- My mom used me as a reference for her cooking skills, which was clearly a mistake.
- Please keep this manual for future reference.
reference
NOUN[/ˈrefərəns/]
the action of mentioning or alluding to something
The scientist checked multiple references before publishing the research paper.
The lawyer presented legal references to strengthen the argument in court. (REFER + SOURCE = REFERENCE)
Strong references and evidence gave the research team confidence in their conclusion.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Reference derives from Latin 'referre', a compound of 're-' (again) and 'ferre' (to carry or bring). The word originally meant the act of bringing back or recalling information, and evolved to denote the mention or citation of a source or previous statement.
Breakdown
re- (again) + ferre (to carry/bring) + -ence (noun suffix forming abstract nouns). The suffix '-ence' converts the verb referre into a noun denoting the act or instance of referencing.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The professor's reference to pizza during a math lecture confused everyone.”
“My mom used me as a reference for her cooking skills, which was clearly a mistake.”
“Please keep this manual for future reference.”
“The research paper includes over 50 references to support its claims.”
“She made a subtle reference to his embarrassing dance moves from last night.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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