1. : an arbitrary set of usually orthogonal axes with reference to which the position or motion of a point, body, or group of bodies is described or with reference to which physical laws are formulated
2.
a. : a usually systematic set of principles, rules, or presuppositions or a system of laws, mores, or values or an interlocking group of facts or ideas serving to orient or give particular meaning (as to a fact, statement, or point of view) or serving as a matrix for behavior or for the formation of attitudes ; broadly : viewpoint , theory
give me some frame of reference in which to discuss his contention — New York Times
each of us views the problem from his particular and limited frame of reference — S.G.DiMichael
the most common frames of reference that the term evokes — economic theories or political loyalties, specific industries or all industries, all foreign countries or particular ones — S.L.Payne
b. : the characteristics of a ground which influence or determine the perception of a figure against it