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

After a sultry stretch, weather conditions in parts of the Midwest and East are about to get more refreshing for the final week of the astronomical spring season. —Ben Noll, Washington Post, 15 June 2026

And in the refreshing atmosphere of a seaside pool. —Deborah Vankin, Los Angeles Times, 15 June 2026

Pair it with Maison Perrier Unflavored Sparkling Water for another timeless and refreshing combo. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 15 June 2026

That said, the post-swim dash across the deck back to the warmth of the gym and spa was refreshing to say the least. —Stefanie Waldek, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 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