1. A written document from a previous employer, teacher, or acquaintance that attests to a person's character, qualifications, or professional abilities
She submitted a letter of reference from her former supervisor with her job application.
Ela submeteu uma carta de referência de seu antigo supervisor junto com sua candidatura ao emprego.
2. A formal recommendation letter used to support an application or candidacy
The university required three letters of reference for the scholarship application.
A universidade exigiu três cartas de referência para a candidatura à bolsa de estudos.