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

El Manto River Access El Manto is located off the American River Parkway and offers visitors a chance to enjoy a nice day trip, picnic or refreshing swim with the current. — Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado july 14, Sacbee.com, 14 July 2026

Outsiders were stunned by this American phenomenon, which was at times both refreshing, and kinda sad. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026

The cool mountain air offers a refreshing escape from muggy summer temperatures, with daytime highs typically hovering around 75 degrees Fahrenheit before dipping to the low 60s in the evening, so be sure to pack a light sweater. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Travel + Leisure, 13 July 2026

This super-crisp and refreshing fruit salad nods to the classic mint julep cocktail, transforming its iconic flavors—mint, bourbon, and sweetness—into a fresh, summery dessert. — Josh Miller, Southern Living, 12 July 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