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| Date: | 1300-1400 |
| Language: | Latin |
| Origin: | referre 'to bring back, report, refer', from ferre 'to carry' |
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re‧fer S1 W1
past tense and past participle referred, present participle referring
past tense and past participle referred, present participle referringrefer to somebody/something
phrasal verb1 to mention or speak about someone or something : 
We agreed never to refer to the matter again.Although she didn't mention any names, everyone knew who she was referring to.
We agreed never to refer to the matter again.Although she didn't mention any names, everyone knew who she was referring to.2 to look at a book, map, piece of paper etc for information : He gave the speech without referring to his notes.
He gave the speech without referring to his notes.3 if a statement, number, report etc refers to someone or something, it is about that person or thing : The figures refer to our sales in Europe.
The figures refer to our sales in Europe.4 to send someone or something to a person or organization to be helped or dealt with : My doctor is referring me to a dermatologist. My complaint was referred to the manufacturers.
refer somebody/something to somebody
My doctor is referring me to a dermatologist.My complaint was referred to the manufacturers.5 to tell someone where to find information : Readers are referred to the bibliography for further information.
refer somebody to something
formalReaders are referred to the bibliography for further information.