mean

express indirectly by an image, form, or model; be a symbol

represent, as of a character on stage

embody the essential characteristics of or be a typical example of

convey or express a meaning

indicate or signify

direct (a remark) toward an intended goal

move into a desired direction of discourse

have as a meaning

practice sophistry; change the meaning of or be vague about in order to mislead or deceive

refer to something with a euphemism

go back to something earlier

give the name or identifying characteristics of; refer to by name or some other identifying characteristic property

refer (a word or name) to a person or thing

speak disparagingly of; e.g., make a racial slur

indicate through a symbol, formula, etc.

intend or have as a purpose

have the will and intention to carry out some action

consider carefully and rationally

have an ambitious plan or a lofty goal

intend with some possibility of fulfilment

propose or intend

make reference to

mention as by way of greeting or to indicate friendship

mention someone's name who just then appears

mention favorably, as in prayer

refer to for illustration or proof

refer to or discuss briefly

cite as an authority; resort to

refer to people that one assumes one's interlocutors admire in order to try to impress them

put forward for consideration or discussion

mention something unpleasant from the past

refer from one entry to another, as in catalogues, books, and lists