refer to somebody/something phrasal verb (
see also refer)
1. to mention or speak about someone or something:
We agreed never to refer to the matter again.
Although she didn’t mention any names, everyone knew who she was referring to.refer to somebody/something as
He likes to be referred to as ‘Doctor Khee’.refer to somebody/something by
The hospital now refers to patients by name, not case number.2. to look at a book, map, piece of paper etc for information:
He gave the speech without referring to his notes.3. if a statement, number, report etc refers to someone or something, it is about that person or thing:
The figures refer to our sales in Europe.4. refer somebody/something to somebody to send someone or something to a person or organization to be helped or dealt with:
My doctor is referring me to a dermatologist.
My complaint was referred to the manufacturers.5. refer somebody to something formal to tell someone where to find information:
Readers are referred to the bibliography for further information. [TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲