refreshing

adjective

re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfre-shiŋ How to pronounce refreshing (audio)
: serving to refresh
especially : agreeably stimulating because of freshness or newness
a refreshing change of pace
refreshingly adverb

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That glistening swimming hole might look—and feel—refreshing on a sweltering day. Angela Haupt, Time, 23 May 2025 Balancing the softness, an oversized high-neck top offers a refreshing, modern edge, while a metallic bouclé jacket channels the timeless sophistication of the quintessential Valli woman — the kind who lunches in couture and lives for a touch of glamour. Lauren Alexis Fisher, Footwear News, 22 May 2025 In an era of horror mired in pathos and trauma metaphors, there’s a refreshing simplicity to movies that are just about finding new ways to turn people into goop. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 22 May 2025 Pour the tea over a glass full of ice or refrigerate it until cold for a refreshing iced tea experience. Carrie Honaker, Southern Living, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for refreshing

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1580, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of refreshing was circa 1580

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Cite this Entry

“Refreshing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refreshing. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

refreshing

adjective
re·​fresh·​ing ri-ˈfresh-iŋ How to pronounce refreshing (audio)
: serving to refresh
especially : pleasing because of freshness or newness

More from Merriam-Webster on refreshing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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