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

Four stops along the way offer free refreshments from highlighted local businesses. —Hema Sivanandam, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

The free pancake breakfast was sponsored by Gus’s BBQ, along with complimentary Peet’s Coffee and refreshments from Toastique and La Popular. —Marianne Love, Daily News, 1 June 2026

The musical event is followed by a meet-and-greet with the Broadway performers and light refreshments. —Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026

Amenities are fairly minimal, so plan ahead with water, snacks, and sun protection—though the visitor center does have some refreshments, including ice cream. —Taryn Shorr-McKee, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 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