reference

I UK [ˈref(ə)rəns] / US noun
Word forms "reference":
singular reference plural references
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1) [countable/uncountable] a comment that mentions someone or something

reference to:

The title is apparently a reference to the singer's brother.

make a/no reference to:

He politely made no reference to my untidy appearance.

passing reference (= a quick comment about someone or something):

Her speech contained only a passing reference to tax reform.

2)

a) [uncountable] the process of looking at something in order to get information

The sentences are numbered for ease of reference.

b) [only before noun] used to describe books or places where you can find information

the reference section of the library

3)

a) [countable] a statement from someone who knows you or has worked with you that gives information about you. You often need to provide a reference when you apply for a new job

take up a reference (= ask for information about a person you are going to employ):

I don't think I've got the job – they haven't taken up my references.

b) American a referee for a job

4) [countable] a number or symbol that shows someone where they can find information that they need

Start your walk at map reference 2D.

reference number:

Please quote your customer reference number if you need to contact us.

5) [countable] a word or phrase that comes from a book or a poem

His writing is full of obscure literary references.

6) [countable] a writer or a piece of work that is mentioned in a piece of writing by someone else

There was a long list of references at the end of the paper.

•

- with reference to

See:

future II

II UK [ˈref(ə)rəns] / US verb [transitive]
Word forms "reference":
present tense I/you/we/they reference he/she/it references present participle referencing past tense referenced past participle referenced

1) formal to mention a particular writer or piece of work

2) to create a list of all the books that are mentioned in a piece of academic writing