reference book

noun

1. a book containing useful facts or specially organized information, as an encyclopedia, dictionary, atlas, yearbook, etc.
2. Also called pass, passbook. South African. a domestic identity document formerly required to be carried by Black citizens.

reference book

noun

1. a book, such as an encyclopedia, dictionary, etc, from which information may be obtained
2. See passbook
   another name for passbook

Word History and Origins

Origin of reference book¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

When I started the movie, I had a reference book of different images that came to mind with the movie.

From The Daily Beast

In these days of directories, there is no branch of sport which has not a complete reference book of its own.

From Project Gutenberg

It contains the essential facts necessary for a valuable reference book on the government.

From Project Gutenberg

The work is intended to serve as a reference book covering the entire subject of milk and its products.

From Project Gutenberg

This comprehensive compilation of Monograms is especially available as a reference book in busy seasons.

From Project Gutenberg

The dispatcher opened a loose-leaf reference book on the counter and then punched the first of a series of buttons on a panel.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• almanac
• dictionary
• directory
• thesaurus