referential

adjective

ref·​er·​en·​tial ˌre-fə-ˈren(t)-shəl How to pronounce referential (audio)
: of, containing, or constituting a reference
especially : pointing to or involving a referent
referential language
referential meaning
referentiality
ˌre-fə-ˌren(t)-shē-ˈa-lə-tē How to pronounce referential (audio)
noun
referentially
ˌre-fə-ˈren(t)-sh(ə-)lē How to pronounce referential (audio)
adverb

Examples of referential in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wildly referential — a take on a great myth. — Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 1 May 2026 Dylan formalizing his interest in AI is sure to be a gut punch to legions of fans who love studying his poetic, referential lyrics. — Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 6 Apr. 2026 Star Wars has circled into a self-referential loop so many times that the franchise feels like a photograph of a photograph, an echo bouncing endlessly down an empty hallway. — Dani Di Placido, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026 Who would ever think of pairing Daniel Radcliffe and Tracy Morgan in a goofy, self-referential network sitcom? — Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for referential

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of referential was in 1660

Rhymes for referential

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Browse Nearby Words

referent
referential
referral
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Cite this Entry

“Referential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/referential. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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