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

If refreshing your home is a goal for 2026, consider soft pieces that make your space feel extra cozy during winter. —Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026

When paired with the refreshing quiet of the desert, the setting is truly a respite from daily stressors. —Kristine Thomason, Outside, 11 Jan. 2026

Dipping our toes into the warm Caribbean waters proved just as refreshing as the morning coffee delivered to our doorstep. —Amber Kallor, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 2026

This is like a Whiskey Sour, but more so—more assertive, more refreshing, and arguably more delicious. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 10 Jan. 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