: something (such as a sign or indication) that refers a reader or consulter to another source of information (such as a book or passage) : a statement of the qualifications of a person seeking …

REFERENCE meaning: 1 : the act of mentioning something in speech or in writing the act of referring to something or someone; 2 : the act of looking at or in something for information

a direction of the attention, as in a book, to some other book, passage, etc.: [uncountable] You make reference to several authors in your paper. [countable] the use of references in a term …

A reference is someone you can rely on to put in a good word for you when applying for a job. Or, a reference might be an outside source you use in a research paper.

Dec 12, 2024 · "Reference" is a versatile word that can mean a source of information, a mention or allusion, or a person who provides testimony about someone’s qualifications.

Definition of reference noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

A reference is a statement written by someone who knows you and which describes your character and abilities. When you apply for a job, an employer might ask for references.

reference noun (LOOK AT) the act of looking at information, or the thing that you look at for information:

References serve as points of authority or credibility, offering a foundation for understanding or evaluation. They can be used to establish relationships, make comparisons, or establish a …

There are 16 meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun reference, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.