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

For Perrine, Dude Magic is as much about rewriting gender codes as refreshing air. —William Jones, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025

The Zen Matcha Light Dry Shampoo, which uses rice starch to mop up excess oil and has a refreshing chamomile, green tea, and sandalwood scent. —Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29, 3 Dec. 2025

For those seeking a quieter, more contemplative escape, winter coastal getaways offer a refreshing alternative to the usual summer bustle. —Amplified Content Studio, Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2025

Its cooling, ceramic-tip applicator makes every swipe instantly refreshing. —Lily Wohlner, Allure, 2 Dec. 2025

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