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

• 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

Blend carrot juice with ice and fruits for a refreshing smoothie. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 27 Sep. 2025

Most tequila recipes are bright and refreshing, leaning on the spirit’s inherent affinity for sunshine. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 27 Sep. 2025

Serve in bowls with a platter of tropezones so each diner can garnish their own — or sip straight from a glass for a refreshing snack. —Laura McLively, Mercury News, 26 Sep. 2025

As the sun set and happy hour waned, the dedicated customers raced to the bar for a thirteen-dollar combo of Orion, a refreshing Okinawan lager, and a shot of Suntory whiskey. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 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