There are multiple definitions - click on the translation that matches your context.

Arbeitszeugnis

Substantiv

full

reference

noun

Comparative law notes

Germany

Also referred to as, inter alia, "letter of recommendation", "employer reference", or "reference letter". There are no specific codified requirements on the content of such letters in common law.

Definitions of reference

English

(also: letter of reference/reference letter) a letter containing information about you and written by someone who knows you well, especially one to be sent to a potential employer, university or landlord etc

A good character reference letter helped her get employment.

English

a mention of something in a speech, a piece of writing or an artistic work etc

We should normally avoid references to commercial products.

English

a letter in which an employer, former employer, teacher, professor, or other authority figure recommends an employee to a potential future employer for a new job

She asked her college tutor for a reference with regard to employment.