The phrase "to cite the paper" means to mention or refer to a specific article or document, usually in a formal or academic way, to support or provide evidence for your own work or argument. Full definition
A study based on results from the microscope became the most - cited paper in the field of neuroscience in the last decade. (gladstone.org)
A widely cited paper on the history of the target compared it to a speed limit — it may not be a scientifically optimal number, but it serves as a useful focal point. (psmag.com)
This new edition of Recognizing Our Authors (PDF) acknowledges authors of our most highly cited papers published between 2009 and 2013. (aspb.org)