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

Business class passengers were served a multi-course dinner shortly after takeoff, had access to snacks and refreshments throughout the flight, and a breakfast meal shortly before landing. —Zach Wichter, USA Today, 21 Nov. 2025

The gift shop will have an assortment of good, refreshments and tree stands will be available for purchase. —Gege Reed, Louisville Courier Journal, 21 Nov. 2025

The event will feature neighborhood dance groups, family activities, refreshments, and remarks from library officials, District 3 Councilwoman Jamie Torres, Deputy Mayor Al Gardner, and other guests. —Jasmine Arenas, CBS News, 19 Nov. 2025

Countless members of the Start Today Community gathered for a two mile walk from the plaza to the Fleet Feet store at Columbus Circle, where they were greeted with refreshments and gifted a brand new pair of Altra sneakers. —Alex Ross, PEOPLE, 14 Nov. 2025

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