refreshment

noun

re·​fresh·​ment ri-ˈfresh-mənt 

1

: the act of refreshing : the state of being refreshed

2

a

: something (such as food or drink) that refreshes

b refreshments plural

(1)

: a light meal

(2)

: assorted light foods

Examples of refreshment in a Sentence

Light refreshments will be served at the meeting.

The workers were in need of refreshment.

We went camping for relaxation and refreshment.

Recent Examples on the Web

Join Hospice of the Chesapeake family for glass of wine, mocktail and light refreshments. — Jamie Chapman, Baltimore Sun, 12 Aug. 2026

The open house is open to residents, business owners and community stakeholders, the news release said, and refreshments will be provided. — Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026

The statute states that refreshments or food with a value up to $5 consumed on the premises of a public or private gathering is exempt. — Aki Nace, CBS News, 6 Aug. 2026

There will be light bites, refreshments and live jazz music along with a display of additional artwork created by Ybarra. — Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refreshment

• liquid refreshment

Kids Definition

refreshment

noun

re·​fresh·​ment ri-ˈfresh-mənt 

1

: the act of refreshing : the state of being refreshed

2

a

: something that refreshes

b

plural : a light meal

refreshments will be served after the meeting