referent

[ ref-er-uhnt ]

noun

1. the object or event to which a term or symbol refers.
2. Logic. the first term in a proposition to which succeeding terms relate.

referent

/ ˈrɛfərənt /

noun

1. the object or idea to which a word or phrase refers Compare sense

Word History and Origins

Origin of referent¹

1835–45; < Latin referent- (stem of referēns ), present participle of referre. See refer, -ent

Word History and Origins

Origin of referent¹

C19: from Latin referens , from referre to refer

Example Sentences

The volumetric, jug-like form of “Martinique” emphasizes clay’s eternal role as a vessel, which the artist fills with new meanings by virtue of her chosen forms and referents.

From Los Angeles Times

"But that would be sad to me, to have lost the referent."

From Salon

It’s a potent reminder of the psychic resonance the show holds for someone who grew up with these referents.

From New York Times

“We can use terms successfully not because we know much about the referent but because we’re linked to the referent by a great social chain of communication.”

From New York Times

“KIMI” self-consciously draws from an assortment of cinematic referents, including obvious touchstones like “Rear Window” and woman-in-peril-at-home thrillers like “Midnight Lace.”

From New York Times

Related Words

• antecedent