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

On the grounds of an old hacienda, find a regional food buffet, a refreshing cenote, a thrilling zip-line course in the jungle, and trails for hiking and biking around the verdant estate. —Regina Zumarraga, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2026

No matter your attachment style, listeners will latch onto Kehlani for its nostalgic references, impressive vocal arrangements, pitch-perfect collaborations, and refreshing perspectives on relationships. —Adelle Platon, VIBE.com, 27 Apr. 2026

On race day, Churchill Downs serves up 120,000 of these refreshing concoctions of bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026

Make his original, below, or try out an even more refreshing variation of El Guapo. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 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