What does it mean if a publication is referred to as 'refereed'?

A publication being described as 'refereed' indicates that it has undergone a rigorous peer-review process before its publication. This means that qualified experts in the relevant field have evaluated the work, assessing its methodology, validity, and contribution to the existing body of knowledge. The peer-review process ensures that only research that meets certain standards of quality and scholarly integrity is published, which enhances the reliability and credibility of the publication.

This rigorous evaluation process distinguishes refereed publications from those that may not have undergone such scrutiny, ensuring that the information presented is vetted by knowledgeable individuals who can provide constructive feedback. This can play a crucial role in academic research, as it fosters a high standard of scholarship and can significantly impact the credibility of the findings presented in the publication.