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reference point

American  
[ref-uh-ruhns point, ref-ruhns] / ˈrɛf ə rəns ˈpɔɪnt, ˈrɛf rəns /

noun

reference points plural
  1. something used as a comparison to aid in evaluation or understanding.

  2. a particular physical location used to navigate an area or find an object.


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.

Apart from his two-year spell at Barcelona, he has been the constant reference point, the face of the team.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

Using Amazon sales from August 2023 as a reference point, they calculated that approximately 1.55 trillion microplastic fibers could be released each month.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 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

Lucy and Ricky Ricardo‘s love story was often a reference point for Roberts throughout his time on “Outlander.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

There was no easy reference point for my decision to pursue sport.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

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