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

• bracing
• cordial
• invigorating
• rejuvenating
• restorative
• reviving
• stimulating
• stimulative
• tonic
• vital
• vitalizing

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

Each bottle features a numeric code which indicates the distillery its from and unique descriptions written up by its tasting panel, a refreshing way to try whisky without any prior expectations about a brand. —Felipe Schrieberg, Forbes.com, 15 June 2025

Nothing beats the taste of a refreshing piece of watermelon on a hot day, so having some cut up and ready in the refrigerator is crucial as the days warm up. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 14 June 2025

Summer parties call for refreshing drinks that wow your guests—and what better way to elevate your gathering than with strawberry-cannabis mocktails? —Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 12 June 2025

But playing with her state runner-up Lake Nona High School team offered refreshing experiences that added more fun to the game. —Buddy Collings, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 June 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