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Definition of refer

refer

/rɪˈfɜːr/
re · fer

Adverb:referentially
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Adjective:referential
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Past Simple:referred
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Past Participle:referred
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Present Participle:referring
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refer Lexical Profile

refer Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To mention, allude to, or direct attention to someone or something (usually followed by 'to').

Example

"In her lecture, the professor referred to several recent studies on climate patterns."


2

To direct a person or pass a matter to an authority, specialist, or source for help, decision, or action.

Example

"The family physician referred the patient to a cardiologist for further testing."


3

To consult or look at a source of information for aid or verification (followed by 'to').

Example

"You may refer to your notes while completing the practice exercises."


4

To attribute or trace something back to a particular cause, origin, or period.

Example

"Historians generally refer the manuscript to the late twelfth century."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for refer

Word Nuance & Usage

When forming the past tense and participle ('referred', 'referring'), the final 'r' is doubled because the stress falls on the second syllable; however, in the noun 'reference', the stress shifts to the first syllable and the 'r' is not doubled.

• Rhymes for refer

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in Middle English from Old French referer, from Latin referre ('to carry back, report, or relate'), formed from re- ('back') and ferre ('to carry or bear').

Cite this Entry


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