Referred Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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referred
[rɪˈfɜrd ]
Definition
mentioning something
Referred is the past tense of the verb 'refer'. It means to direct someone's attention to a source of information or to mention something or someone. When something is referred to, it indicates that it is being brought up for consideration or to provide clarification. It is commonly used in academic writing, conversation, and professional settings to link ideas or elements. The act of referring can involve citations, suggestions, or pointing out relevant points that may aid understanding.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She referred to her notes during the presentation.
- The book you mentioned is referred to several times in the article.
- He referred to the incident in his speech.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often rely on others' opinions when they are referred to experts or resources, showing how referral can shape decision-making.
- Referrals play a significant role in word-of-mouth marketing, as people trust recommendations from friends over advertisements.
- Studies show that referrals can increase trust and speed up the decision-making process.
Literature
- In many literary works, authors use referral to characters and themes to deepen meaning and connect ideas.
- Classic novels often feature a narrator who refers to events from the past, giving readers context.
- The act of referring can create layers of interpretation, as readers connect different characters or themes within a storyline.
Pop Culture
- In social media, 'referral programs' often reward users for bringing new friends to a platform.
- Popular TV shows often refer to historical events or other shows to make jokes, creating a cultural connection for viewers.
- Social influencers frequently refer their followers to products they trust, impacting consumer behavior.
Origin of 'referred'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'referre', meaning 'to bring back'.
- In Middle English, it transformed into 'referen', showing how language evolves over time.
- It entered the English language around the 15th century, indicating a long history of usage.
The word 'refer' is derived from the Latin 'referre', which means 'to carry back' or 'to bring back'. This Latin term is composed of the prefix 're-', meaning 'back', and 'ferre', meaning 'to carry'. The use of 'refer' in English dates back to the late 14th century, initially indicating the action of bringing or sending back. Over time, it evolved to encompass the modern meanings associated with directing attention or alluding to something specific. The term 'referred' as the past tense form of 'refer' emerged in standard usage during the late 15th century, solidifying its role in English vocabulary across various contexts.