reference

The word “reference” means a mention of, or connection to, something else. In plain terms, a mention or pointer to something else, or a person/document vouching for someone.

“Reference” is pronounced REHF-ruhns (/ˈɹɛf.(ə.)ɹəns/ in IPA).

Here is “reference” used in a sentence: “The article makes several references to earlier research.”

Depending on how it is used, “reference” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “reference” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin referentia, ultimately from Latin referre ("to carry back, report").

“Reference” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“Reference” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mention of, or connection to, something else.

A reference is any mention of or connection to something else. A citation is a specific, formal reference that credits a source in academic or legal writing, giving details such as author, title and date. Every citation is a reference, but a casual mention in conversation is a reference without being a formal citation.

A reference mentions something openly and directly, so the reader knows exactly what is meant. An allusion is indirect: it hints at something and trusts you to recognise it without being told. Naming a book is a reference; echoing a famous line from it, without naming it, is an allusion.

The word covers several ideas. It can mean a passing mention or allusion to something, a formal citation of a source, a personal recommendation from someone who knows you (a job reference), or a fixed point used for comparison (a reference point). Context usually makes clear which sense is meant.

Saying 'that's very Sherlock Holmes of you' is a reference — it mentions and draws a connection to a well-known character to make a point. Other examples include a footnote pointing to a source, a map's grid reference, or a former boss acting as a reference for a job applicant.