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Definition of ref

ref

/rɛf/
ref
Plural:refs
•
Past Simple:reffed
•
Past Participle:reffed
•
Present Participle:reffing
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ref Lexical Profile

ref Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An official who watches a game or match closely to ensure that the rules are adhered to and to arbitrate on matters arising from the play (informal short form of referee).

Example

"The players crowded around the ref after he blew the whistle for a penalty."

2

A reference, citation, or identifying reference number used in business, correspondence, or academic writing.

Example

"Please quote our booking ref at the top of any future correspondence."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ref

• verb

1

To act as a referee in a sports game or match (informal).

Example

"My uncle volunteered to ref the youth basketball tournament on Saturday."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ref

• Rhymes for ref

• Nearby Words

reexplore
reexport
reexposure
ref
reface
refashion
refasten

Word Origin & Etymology

Late 19th century: an informal clipping of both 'referee' and 'reference', derived ultimately from the Latin verb 'referre' (meaning 'to carry back' or 'to report').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ref. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ref
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