freshen

American  

[fresh-uhn] / ˈfrɛʃ ən /

verb (used with object)

1. to make fresh; refresh, revive, or renew.

   We need a good rain to freshen the flowers.

2. to remove saltiness from.

3. Nautical. to preserve (a rope in use) from prolonged friction or concentrated stress on any one part.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to become or grow fresh.

2. (of a cow)

   1. to commence giving milk after calving.

   2. to give birth.

verb phrase

1. freshen up to make oneself feel freshly clean or neat, as by washing, changing clothes, etc..

   to freshen up after a long trip.

freshen British  

/ ˈfrɛʃən /

verb

1. to make or become fresh or fresher

2. (often foll by up) to refresh (oneself), esp by washing

3. (intr) (of the wind) to increase

4. to lose or cause to lose saltiness

5. (intr)

   1. (of farm animals) to give birth

   2. (of cows) to commence giving milk after calving

---

Other Word Forms

• freshener noun

Etymology

Origin of freshen

First recorded in 1690–1700; fresh + -en ¹

Example Sentences

When I’m ready to freshen up my fridge, I tend to work up a loose step ladder depending on my energy and the kind of week I’m having.

From Salon • Mar. 9, 2026

Other costs like hiring a painter to freshen up the kitchen or fixing the shower head would be under your purview.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 20, 2026

Another pro tip: avoiding checking bags, so she has more time to relax and freshen up upon arrival.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 4, 2026

The bathrooms are decorated with faux marble, and the image of a black panther with a yellow eye fixed on customers as they freshen up.

From Barron's • Dec. 22, 2025

"I'll be right back then. I'll just go freshen up my lipstick."

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell

Related Words

• cleanse
• enliven
• invigorate
• refresh
• sweeten