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

The Big 12’s decision to backtrack is somewhat refreshing given the fact that college athletes have far fewer resources to press for changes of this nature. —Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 13 Mar. 2026

Guests can also sip on signature cocktails like the Martha-tini or the refreshing frozen pomegranate Martha-rita. —Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 13 Mar. 2026

It’s equipped with hero products, including a refreshing cleanser, glazing milk (my personal favorite), peptide glazing fluid, and barrier restore cream. —Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 13 Mar. 2026

As a wide-ranging exploration of a young person coming of age as a millennial Jew in New York City in 2003, the game offers other, refreshing perspectives. —Literary Hub, 13 Mar. 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