refresh
Americanverb (used with object)
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to provide new vigor and energy by rest, food, etc. (often used reflexively).
- Synonyms:
- revive
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to stimulate (the memory).
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to make fresh again; reinvigorate or cheer (a person, the mind, spirits, etc.).
- Antonyms:
- discourage, dispirit
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to freshen in appearance, color, etc., as by a restorative.
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Computers.
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to access (the most recent version of a web page) from the internet instead of from the cache.
I refreshed the page to see the current stock price before executing my online trade.
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to display (an image) repeatedly, as on a CRT, in order to prevent fading.
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to read and write (the contents of dynamic storage) at intervals in order to avoid loss of data.
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verb (used without object)
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to take refreshment, especially food or drink.
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to become fresh or vigorous again; revive.
verb
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(usually tr or reflexive) to make or become fresh or vigorous, as through rest, drink, or food; revive or reinvigorate
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(tr) to enliven (something worn or faded), as by adding new decorations
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(tr) to stimulate (the memory)
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(tr) to replenish, as with new equipment or stores
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computing to display the latest updated version (of a web page or document); reload
Usage
What does refresh mean? To refresh is to reinvigorate, renew, or restore something to its original condition or a better state.In the context of technology, refresh most commonly means to reload a web page or app in order to access the most recent or updated version of a display or feed.Example: It’s amazing how much a hot shower can really refresh your spirit.
Other Word Forms
- refreshful adjective
- refreshfully adverb
- unrefreshed adjective
- well-refreshed adjective
Etymology
Origin of refresh
First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English refreschen, from Middle French refreschir, Old French. See re-, fresh
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
It’s simply about noticing when your body or brain is asking for a small refresh — which ties into what I’ve come to believe most about healthy eating: it works best when it’s structural, not moral.
From Salon
There is no shame in Gyllenhaal’s game, and her honest excitement to dabble with references and emotion is refreshing, even when these moments grate.
From Salon
The instantly recognizable musical style has remained, over the years, consistently abstract and refreshing.
From Los Angeles Times
Everyone is refreshing their X feed to read the latest takes on Iran.
From MarketWatch
Target is also trying to reignite its reputation as a destination for style and value, refreshing store displays, as well as some of its own store brands in the process.
From MarketWatch
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
