reference point

noun

: something that is used to judge or understand something else
The professor used the study as a reference point for evaluating and discussing other theories.

Examples of reference point in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Metrics for mental health are still being worked out, though McKay pointed to the Healthy Minds Study, a national survey of college student mental health, as a likely reference point. CBS News, 28 Aug. 2026 Traders can use the top of the gap near $145 as their reference point. Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 24 Aug. 2026 Unlike traditional swaps, the defense argues, the Polymarket contracts at issue do not resolve against an objective, external reference point. The Insider, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 This reference point determines whether an outcome is perceived as a gain or a loss. Adrian Gore, Time, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for reference point

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reference point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reference%20point. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!