refreshing

adjective

re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfre-shiŋ 

: serving to refresh

especially : agreeably stimulating because of freshness or newness

a refreshing change of pace

refreshingly

ri-ˈfre-shiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of refreshing

• restorative
• reviving
• stimulating
• vitalizing
• rejuvenating
• bracing
• vital
• invigorating
• tonic
• cordial
• medicinal
• healthy

Examples of refreshing in a Sentence

Working on the new project was a refreshing change.

It is refreshing to hear some good news about him.

a refreshing glass of cold water

My swim was very refreshing.

Recent Examples on the Web

Linear and focused in mouthfeel, it is filled with energy, zest for life, and a refreshing citrus finish. — Liz Thach, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Besides free agency opening on Tuesday, the timing does add up for Leonard’s trade, as Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank has steered the franchise through a refreshing youth movement over the past year. — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026

Chisholm is one of baseball’s most entertaining players, and his personality in a sport that can be beyond stuck-up is refreshing. — Chris Kirschner, New York Times, 29 June 2026

The collection featured delicate, flowing lightweight layers, a desert-neutral color palette injected with refreshing sorbet colors — creamsicle, mint and lavender — and a mix-and-match approach to sport, utility and tailoring. — Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for refreshing

• fleshing
• meshing
• threshing

Kids Definition

refreshing

adjective

re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfresh-iŋ 

: serving to refresh

especially : pleasing because of freshness or newness