refreshment

noun

re·​fresh·​ment ri-ˈfresh-mənt 

1

: the act of refreshing : the state of being refreshed

2

a

: something (such as food or drink) that refreshes

b refreshments plural

(1)

: a light meal

(2)

: assorted light foods

Examples of refreshment in a Sentence

Light refreshments will be served at the meeting.

The workers were in need of refreshment.

We went camping for relaxation and refreshment.

Recent Examples on the Web

And since no celebration is complete without a summery beverage, here are a few easy recipes to get the party started and a weekend full of refreshment. —Claudia Alarcón, Forbes.com, 23 May 2026

The Regent Club lounge on the 17th floor is one of the hotel’s strongest perks, with a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, solid breakfast service, and all-day refreshments. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026

Light refreshments will be served. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 May 2026

The heat and humidity of summer can only be balanced with refreshment, and boy are there a lot of options to choose from. —Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 18 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refreshment

• liquid refreshment

Kids Definition

refreshment

noun

re·​fresh·​ment ri-ˈfresh-mənt 

1

: the act of refreshing : the state of being refreshed

2

a

: something that refreshes

b

plural : a light meal

refreshments will be served after the meeting