reference
UK: ˈref.rəns | US: ˈref.ɚ.əns
n. a mention or citation of a source of information
n. the act of consulting or referring to something
vt. to provide a source or citation for information
The word "reference" originates from the Latin referre ("to carry back, relate"), composed of re- (back) + ferre (to carry). The noun suffix -ence was added in Middle English to form "reference," signifying the act of directing or relating to something. Over time, it evolved to denote citations or sources in academic and professional contexts, reflecting its logical progression from "relating back" to "citing authority."
She included a reference to the study in her research paper.
The manual serves as a quick reference for troubleshooting.
Always reference your sources to avoid plagiarism.
The librarian helped me find a reliable reference book.
His speech made several historical references.