reference

noun

1 (C, U) something you say or write that mentions another person or thing

(+ to): There is no direct reference to her own childhood in the novel. | make reference to: Winston made no reference to what had happened. | a passing reference (to) (=a quick mention): a speech about the economy without even a passing reference to the problem of unemployment

2 (C, U) the act of looking at something for information: Use this dictionary for easy reference. | for future reference (=to have information in the future): Keep their price list on file for future reference.

3 with reference to formal used to say what you are writing or talking about, especially in business letters: With reference to your recent advertisement, I am writing to request further details.

4 (C)

a) a letter written by someone who knows you well, usually to a new employer, giving information about you: take up references (=get references): We will need references from your former employers.

b) a person who provides information about your character and abilities: Ask your teacher to act as one of your references.

5 (C)

a) a note that tells you where the information that is used in a book, article etc comes from: a list of references at the end of the article

b) a number that tells you where you can find the information you want in a book, on a map etc: map reference SG 49

—see also: cross­reference, frame of reference, terms of reference term 1 (18)