Viit

Viit is an Estonian noun that broadly refers to a reference, cross-reference, or pointer within a text. In scholarly and encyclopedic writing, a viit identifies a cited source or directs the reader to additional information. In dictionaries and lexicographic material, viit is used to indicate a cross-reference to a related entry or topic. The term is commonly encountered in publishing, editing, and academic contexts where sources or connections between entries must be shown.

In practice, viit can appear as a note, citation, or pointer to another place in the same document or to an external source. The plural form is viited, as in “references” or “cross-references.” In editing and bibliographic workflows, viit-like elements are typically formatted as footnotes or endnotes, with the exact presentation following the applicable citation style of the publication (for example, guidelines corresponding to commonly used styles in the field).

Etymologically, viit derives from the Estonian verb viitama, meaning to indicate or to point. Related forms include viide, a term more directly associated with a single reference or citation, and other derivations used to discuss indicating or directing attention within texts. Viit is therefore a central concept in how Estonian-language texts organize and connect information, both in print and digital publishing.

Usage notes: while viit is primarily used in Estonian-language contexts, its function parallels cross-referencing concepts found in many languages, serving to guide readers to related material and sources.