refer to

verb

referred to; referring to; refers to
Synonyms of refer tonext
1
: to look at or in (something) for information
She often refers to her notes when giving a speech.
Please refer to our website for more information.
2
: to have a direct connection or relationship to (something)
The word "finch" refers to a kind of bird.
The numbers shown in the text refer to footnotes at the bottom of the page.
3
: to talk about or write about (someone or something) especially briefly : to mention (someone or something) in speech or in writing
No one referred to the incident.

Examples of refer to 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.
Paul was referring to Steph Curry and Draymond Green, the latter also a Klutch client. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 3 July 2026 He is often referred to as the King of Pop, but the superstar's catalog also includes rock, R&B, dance and other styles as well. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 To the extent that their fellow-citizens refer to them at all, our government functionaries are perceived not as active agents of change but as inert, self-protecting obstructions. The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 July 2026 Norris often referred to the United States as the greatest nation because of its freedoms and opportunities. Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for refer to

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Refer to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refer%20to. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster