Reference | Mean of reference in English Dictionary

/ˈrɛfrəns/

• Noun
• the act of mentioning something in speech or in writing
1. references to an earlier event
2. Bob's nickname was “Elvis,” a reference to the way he styled his hair. [=people called Bob “Elvis” because he styled his hair in the same way Elvis Presley did]
3. She made reference to our agreement. [=she mentioned our agreement]
4. The numbers were calculated by reference to the most recent census.
• the act of looking at or in something for information
1. The report was filed for future reference. [=so that people could look at it later]
2. Reference to a map will make the position clear.
• a person who can be asked for information about another person's character, abilities, etc.
1. She listed her former teacher as a reference when she applied for the job.

• a statement about someone's character, abilities, etc.
1. Her former teacher gave her a reference when she applied for the job.
2. Her teacher gave her a letter of reference.
• something (such as a book, dictionary, encyclopedia, etc.) that people can look at or in to find information about something
1. a small dictionary that is a handy reference
2. How many references do you use in your essay?
• about or concerning (something or someone)
1. I have something further to add with reference to [=with respect to, in regard to] what was said earlier.
2. I am writing in reference to your recent letter.
3. The course covers ancient history with special reference to the Roman Empire. [=the course is about ancient history and especially about the Roman Empire]
• Verb
• to mention (something or someone) in speech or in writing
1. The book references many other authors who have written on this topic.
• used to find information about something
1. a reference book
2. a list of reference materials/sources
• used to tell people where information can be found
1. a reference mark/number