Refill: meaning, definitions and examples

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refill

 

[ riːˈfɪl ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

action

Fill (a container) again.

Synonyms

recharge, replenish, top up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
refill

Used when you fill something again to full capacity, especially containers like bottles, glasses, or cartridges.

  • Could you refill my glass with water? I need to refill the printer's ink cartridge
replenish

Used in more formal or general contexts when restoring a supply or stock, often for items like supplies, resources, or inventory.

  • We need to replenish our stock of paper
  • The store replenishes its inventory every Monday
top up

Common in British English, used when adding more to a current amount to bring it to a desired level, often for liquids, phone credit, or fuel.

  • I need to top up my mobile credit
  • Can you top up my gas tank?
recharge

Used when replenishing the power of a battery or restoring energy, often in a context of re-energizing oneself or an electronic device.

  • I need to recharge my phone
  • I'm going on vacation to recharge after a busy month

Examples of usage

  • He refilled my glass with water.
  • I need to refill my car with gas.
Context #2 | Noun

medicine

A prescription or dose of medicine that is to be provided again.

Synonyms

renewal, replenishment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
refill

Used when you are filling something again with the same content, often used for drinks, medications, or other consumables.

  • Can I get a refill on my coffee? She needs a refill of her prescription
renewal

Mostly used in the context of extending the duration or validity of something like a subscription, membership, or contract.

  • Your magazine subscription is up for renewal
  • The contract is due for renewal next month
replenishment

Used in contexts where supplies or stocks need to be made full again, often used in retail or inventory management.

  • The store needs a replenishment of paper towels
  • They are in charge of the warehouse replenishment

Examples of usage

  • I need a refill of my allergy medication.
  • The doctor authorized a refill of the prescription.

Etymology

The word 'refill' originated from the combination of 're-' meaning 'again' and 'fill'. It first appeared in the late 16th century. The concept of refilling containers or prescriptions has been essential in various industries to ensure continuous supply and usage of resources.

See also: fill, filled, filler, filling, overfill, refilling, unfilled.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,477, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.