refresh

[ri-fresh]

verb (used with object)

1. to provide new vigor and energy by rest, food, etc. (often used reflexively).

   Synonyms: revive

2. to stimulate (the memory).

3. to make fresh again; reinvigorate or cheer (a person, the mind, spirits, etc.).

   Synonyms: reanimate, enliven, freshen
   Antonyms: discourage, dispirit

4. to freshen in appearance, color, etc., as by a restorative.

   Synonyms: retouch, renew, renovate, repair, restore

5. Computers.

   1. 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.

   2. to display (an image) repeatedly, as on a CRT, in order to prevent fading.

   3. to read and write (the contents of dynamic storage) at intervals in order to avoid loss of data.

verb (used without object)

1. to take refreshment, especially food or drink.

2. to become fresh or vigorous again; revive.

refresh

/ rɪˈfrɛʃ /

verb

1. (usually tr or reflexive) to make or become fresh or vigorous, as through rest, drink, or food; revive or reinvigorate

2. (tr) to enliven (something worn or faded), as by adding new decorations

3. (tr) to stimulate (the memory)

4. (tr) to replenish, as with new equipment or stores

5. computing to display the latest updated version (of a web page or document); reload

Other Word Forms

• refreshful adjective
• refreshfully adverb
• unrefreshed adjective
• well-refreshed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of refresh¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English refreschen, from Middle French refreschir, Old French. See re-, fresh

Word History and Origins

Origin of refresh¹

C14: from Old French refreschir ; see _re- , _fresh

Example Sentences

Even against a limping opponent, it was refreshing for Chiefs fans to see the team’s offense clear the 30-point barrier for the first time all season.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Normal people don’t wear out the refresh button on BLS.gov when the federal government is about to drop new employment data, like I do.

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This time around, software and programming can be refreshed remotely, with over-the-air updates.

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The refreshed premium cards rolled out over the past few months by the likes of Chase and Amex are prompting a reshuffling among affluent consumers.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

It has said it aims to refresh its entire branch network by the end of 2028 and to expand its network in key locations, including Chicago and Nashville.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• cool 
• exhilarate 
• reinvigorate 
• rejuvenate 
• replenish 
• revive 
• stimulate 

When To Use

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.