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

There will be light refreshments. —Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Mar. 2026

Functional beverages go beyond basic refreshment and include ingredients like adaptogens, botanicals or other supplements that can support mood, relaxation and overall well-being. —Jeff Burkhart, Mercury News, 18 Mar. 2026

There will be refreshments and raffles as well. —Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2026

It’s set to include an art exhibition, light refreshments, live painting from Art by Mersa and more. —Anne Schrager, San Francisco Chronicle, 14 Mar. 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