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

Follow Hochman for continued coverage on what's delicious, refreshing, inspiring, indulgent and entertaining in California and way beyond. —David Hochman, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025

Seeing new sights and breathing in fresh energy will be refreshing. —Lisa Stardust, People.com, 4 Apr. 2025

The Burt's Bees Spring Gift Set includes four refreshing lip balms: Original Beeswax, Dragonfruit Lemon, Tropical Pineapple, and Strawberry. —Jacquelyn Smith, Parents, 4 Apr. 2025

A touch of grapefruit essential oil imparts a refreshing, uplifting scent. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 1 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for refreshing

• fleshing
• meshing
• threshing

Kids Definition

refreshing

adjective

re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfresh-iŋ 

: serving to refresh

especially : pleasing because of freshness or newness