1 [C,U] (a) reference (to sb/sth) a written or spoken comment that mentions sb/sth 提及或谈到…的文字或言语: The article made a direct referenceto a certain member of the royal family. 文章直接提到某位王室成员。

2 [U] looking at sth for information 查阅；参考: The guidebook might be useful for future reference. 这本指南也许可作将来参考之用。

3 [C] a note, especially in a book, that tells you where certain information came from or can be found 参考书目；引文出处

4 [C] (abbr ref.) (used on business letters, etc) a special number that identifies a letter, etc （用于商业书信等）档案编号: Please quote our reference when replying. 回复时请注明我方档案编号。

5 [C] a statement or letter describing a person's character and ability that is given to a possible future employer （关于谋职者的性格、能力等的）介绍信，推荐信: My boss gave me a good reference. 我的上司为我写了一封不错的推荐信。