noun C1 Advanced Uncommon

citation

seye-TAYSHN

Citation (noun) means a reference to a source of information, given to credit where it came from, especially in academic writing. Example: “Every quote in the essay needs a proper citation.”

noun

A reference to a source of information, given to credit where it came from, especially in academic writing.

"Every quote in the essay needs a proper citation."

An official order to appear before a court, or a formal notice of a minor offence such as a traffic violation.

"He received a citation for speeding on the motorway."

A formal statement recognising someone's achievement or bravery.

"The soldier received a citation for bravery under fire."

How to Use Citation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA reference crediting a source, a legal summons, or an official mention of an achievement.

Common pairings

academic citation traffic citation citation for bravery

Word Forms

citations plural

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Every quote in the essay needs a proper _____.

Etymology

From Old French citation, from Latin citatio, built from citare ("to summon" or "to cite").

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for citation

ion lion Zion Dion Sion union scion Orion Onion action minion bunion

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “citation” mean?

The word “citation” means a reference to a source of information, given to credit where it came from, especially in academic writing. In plain terms, a reference crediting a source, a legal summons, or an official mention of an achievement.

How do you pronounce “citation”?

“Citation” is pronounced seye-TAYSHN (/ˌsaɪˈteɪʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “citation” in a sentence?

Here is “citation” used in a sentence: “Every quote in the essay needs a proper citation.”

What part of speech is “citation”?

“Citation” is a noun.

Where does the word “citation” come from?

The word “citation” comes from Latin. From Old French citation, from Latin citatio, built from citare ("to summon" or "to cite").

Is “citation” a common word?

“Citation” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

How many meanings does “citation” have?

“Citation” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a reference to a source of information, given to credit where it came from, especially in academic writing.