Referenstoner

Referenstoner is a neologism used in online discourse to describe a person who habitually cites sources in discussions in an effort to ground arguments in verifiable information. The exact origin is unclear, but the term has circulated in forums, comment threads, and memes since the 2010s, often as a lighthearted or critical label.

Characteristics commonly associated with referenstoners include frequent insertion of quotations, references to studies or primary sources, and a preference for discussing evidence over speculation. The style can range from concise citations to lengthy excerpts. In some communities, this approach is valued for encouraging accountability and informed debate; in others, it is seen as pedantic or derailment-prone when overused or delivered with sarcasm.

Usage and reception vary by context. In academic-oriented spaces, thorough sourcing is expected and a referenstoner may be welcomed. In casual or contentious online discussions, the term is often used pejoratively to suggest that a person is more concerned with proving a point than with productive dialogue. Some users may self-identify with the label in a humorous or self-deprecating way, while others use it to critique perceived over-citation.

Related terms include citation-hawk, pedantry, and source criticism. The concept highlights a tension in online communication between evidence-based discussion and conversational flow, illustrating how sourcing practices influence perceived credibility and rhetorical dynamics.