A referent is the actual object, concept, or idea that a word or phrase represents. For example, in the sentence "The cat is on the mat," the word "cat" refers to a specific animal, while "mat" refers to a particular object. Understanding the referent helps clarify communication and ensures that the intended meaning is conveyed. In linguistics, referents are crucial for understanding semantics, which is the study of meaning in language. They help establish connections between language and the real world, allowing speakers and listeners to share information effectively. This relationship is essential for clear communication in everyday interactions.