1
as in source
something mentioned in a text as providing related and especially supporting information
the author's argument is interesting, but the lack of references makes me wonder if it can be proven
Synonyms & Similar Words
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as in to source
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of reference
City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
That was a reference to the hush money payments to Stormy Daniels.
—Ted Johnson, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2026
Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026
When lyrics reference the specific facts of an alleged crime, and prosecutors can demonstrate they were intended as literal statements, not artistic expression — that evidence remains admissible.
—Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore Sun, 4 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reference
Noun
Authorities urged anyone who may recognize the woman from the rendering or her physical description to call the Medical Examiner’s Office at 858-694-2905 and reference case number 2022-01456.
—City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026
That was a reference to the hush money payments to Stormy Daniels.
—Ted Johnson, Deadline, 24 Apr. 2026
Verb
He won’t be seen on screen, but characters will reference and speak to Fez over the phone.
—Yvonne Villarreal, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026
When lyrics reference the specific facts of an alleged crime, and prosecutors can demonstrate they were intended as literal statements, not artistic expression — that evidence remains admissible.
—Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore Sun, 4 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for reference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reference
Noun
-
Bo Erickson | Reuters A source who was attending the event, and was briefed by Secret Service after the shooting, told CNBC’s Eamon Javers that a man with a shotgun had approached metal detectors and was shot by Secret Service agents.—
Kevin Breuninger,
CNBC,
26 Apr. 2026
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David Rubenstein, principal owner of the Baltimore Orioles, was also among the guests, sources told Candy Woodall of Spotlight on Maryland.—
Bridget Byrne,
Baltimore Sun,
26 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Time will tell what these partners are able to do with regard to safety, but releasing it to the general public would certainly have been ill-advised and dangerous.—
Kurt Knutsson,
FOXNews.com,
25 Apr. 2026
-
Thompson could help in that regard.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
25 Apr. 2026
Verb
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That tension — between the gravity of what the commission documented and the limits of what it was empowered to do — defined Thursday’s release of its final report.—
Olivia Olander,
Chicago Tribune,
1 May 2026
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So far, no one has been arrested, but officials said a couple of cases have been documented as hate-crime investigations.—
Elizabeth Robinson,
NBC news,
30 Apr. 2026
Noun
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Though an unabashedly liberal Democrat, Hart commanded respect from lawmakers of both parties for his intellect, decency and grit.—
John T. Shaw,
Chicago Tribune,
27 Apr. 2026
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Her growing respect and affection for Valerie has been one of the season’s bright spots, particularly with Mickey gone.—
Louis Peitzman,
Vulture,
27 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reference. Accessed 1 May. 2026.
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