Definitions for the word "reference" from multiple English dictionaries.
1. n.
The act of referring, or the state of being referred; as, reference to a chart for guidance.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
That which refers to something; a specific direction of the attention; as, a reference in a text-book.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
Relation; regard; respect.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
One who, or that which, is referred to.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
One of whom inquires can be made as to the integrity, capacity, and the like, of another.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
A work, or a passage in a work, to which one is referred.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
The act of submitting a matter in dispute to the judgment of one or more persons for decision.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. n.
The process of sending any matter, for inquiry in a cause, to a master or other officer, in order that he may ascertain facts and report to the court.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. n.
Appeal.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. n.
1 referring of a matter for decision or settlement or consideration to some authority. 2 scope given to this authority. 3 (foll. By to) a relation, respect, or correspondence. B allusion. C direction to a book etc. (or a passage in it) where information may be found. D book or passage so cited. 4 act of looking up a passage etc., or referring to a book or person for information. 5 a written testimonial supporting an applicant for employment etc. B person giving this. with (or in) reference to regarding; as regards; about. referential adj.
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
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Additional Info
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