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

• bracing
• cordial
• invigorating
• rejuvenating
• restorative
• reviving
• stimulating
• stimulative
• tonic
• vital
• vitalizing

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

Some of the past delights have featured a refreshing raspberry beer paired with a lemon dessert or a chocolate stout pint with a crumbly peanut butter cookie. —Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024

The icy root beer exterior is refreshing and robust, brilliantly blending with the creamy vanilla ice cream inside. —Alex Beggs, Bon Appétit, 12 Dec. 2024

In this special, Foxx addresses these swirling rumors—wild speculations that he had been cloned or even died—with a candidness that feels both refreshing and necessary. —Shelby Stewart, Essence, 12 Dec. 2024

These light, crisp wines provide a refreshing alternative to heavier selections, and their natural production processes resonate with guests seeking more sustainable choices with flavors often with more minerality and earthiness. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

refreshing

adjective

re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfresh-iŋ 

: serving to refresh

especially : pleasing because of freshness or newness