'reference' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'referre,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'ferre' meant 'to carry.'

'referre' transformed into the Old French word 'referer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reference' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to carry back or relate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to mention or cite.'