Why is the ref called the ref?

Have you ever wondered why the person who oversees a sporting event, ensuring the rules are followed and making decisions on penalties, is commonly referred to as "the ref"? This term has become ubiquitous in sports vernacular, but its origins may not be as straightforward as you might think. Is it a shortened version of a longer term? A colloquialism born from the sports community? Or perhaps it has deeper historical roots tied to the evolution of organized sport? Let's delve into the question and uncover the reason behind why the ref is known as the ref.