refreshing

1 of 2

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

refreshing

2 of 2

present participle of refresh

Synonyms of refreshing

Adjective

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

Examples of refreshing in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

There’s something really cool and really refreshing about that. — José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 30 Oct. 2026

Some riff on seltzer water, others on soda pops, while some reinvent heritage libations, like switchel and agua fresca—all while tasting ridiculously refreshing. — Francesca Krempa, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Oct. 2026

Darrell also spoke about refreshing icons — like the Pearlized Old Skool — and offering new silhouettes. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2026

This extra time helps smooth out flavors even further and creates that signature refreshing finish. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 27 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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