refreshing

adjective

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

Synonyms of refreshing

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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.
How refreshing that a filmmaker was not only allowed to do that, but encouraged as such. — Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 29 June 2026 Linear and focused in mouthfeel, it is filled with energy, zest for life, and a refreshing citrus finish. — Liz Thach, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 Old compact cameras are cool again – partly because taking a photo on something that isn’t also your phone feels kinda refreshing. — New Atlas, 28 June 2026 Chisholm is one of baseball’s most entertaining players, and his personality in a sport that can be beyond stuck-up is refreshing. — Chris Kirschner, New York Times, 29 June 2026 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

Rhymes for refreshing

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Browse Nearby Words

refreshful
refreshing
refreshment
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Cite this Entry

“Refreshing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refreshing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

Nglish: Translation of refreshing for Spanish Speakers

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