reference point
Americannoun
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something used as a comparison to aid in evaluation or understanding.
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a particular physical location used to navigate an area or find an object.
Other Word Forms
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“INAROW62” opens with a “Scott Pilgrim” sound bite, continuing a reference point Díaz previously explored on the “Sayonara” track “Ramona Flowers” — named after the titular character’s edgy female love interest.
From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026
The test lasted about 70 minutes, allowing them to practice approaching and backing away from part of the rocket, which served as a reference point for Orion’s movements.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026
For decades, the SMC has served as an important reference point for studying how galaxies form stars and evolve.
From Science Daily • Mar. 20, 2026
Contracts to buy and sell oil will often use Brent as a reference point, so it has significant influence on global energy costs.
From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026
The sun was low in the sky and surrounded as I was by trees, I had no reference point to tell me whether it was rising or setting.
From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
