to mention or speak about someone or something
In his speech, the mayor referred to the new hospital several times.
Please don't refer to her mistakes during the meeting.
✦ Late Middle English, from Latin ‘referre’ meaning “bring back, report.”
to be about, relate to, or describe something
The code name 'Project Sunrise' refers to the company's renewable energy plan.
This rule refers only to full-time employees.
to look at a book, chart, or other source of information for help
If you’re not sure of the answer, refer to the instruction manual.
Students can refer to the glossary for difficult terms.
to send someone to another person or place for advice, help, or treatment
The family doctor referred the patient to a heart specialist.
My teacher referred me to a helpful website for extra practice.
to pass a matter to someone with higher authority to deal with
The police referred the case to the public prosecutor.
Any big budget changes must be referred to the board.
to like one thing, person, or action more than another and choose it if you can
Most kids prefer ice cream to vegetables.
I prefer walking to work because it helps me wake up.
✦ From Latin praeferre “to carry before, esteem more highly,” from prae “before” + ferre “to carry.”
(law) to give one person or creditor priority over another when paying debts or distributing money
Under bankruptcy rules, a company cannot prefer certain creditors unfairly.
The trustee discovered payments that preferred the CEO’s relatives.
(formal) to officially present or submit a charge, accusation, or request for consideration
The prosecutor decided to prefer charges against the suspect.
Citizens may prefer a petition to the committee for review.
