Refreshment: meaning, definitions and examples

🥤

Add to dictionary

refreshment

[rɪˈfrɛʃmənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

at a party

Refreshment refers to food and drinks served at a party or event to satisfy guests' hunger and thirst. It usually includes a variety of light snacks, beverages, and desserts.

Synonyms

appetizers, beverages, snacks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
refreshment	Generally used to describe light food and drinks provided, especially during a break in a meeting, event, or social gathering. We served refreshments during the workshop break Please help yourself to some refreshments at the buffet table
snacks	Describes small, informal, and typically quick-to-eat food items, often eaten between meals or on the go. She packed some snacks for the road trip, like chips and granola bars Kids often enjoy having snacks after school
beverages	Refers to any drink, often non-alcoholic, but can include alcoholic drinks as well. Typically used in both casual and formal contexts. The party had a wide variety of beverages, including sodas, juices, and wines Can I get you any beverages while you wait?
appetizers	Used to describe small dishes served before the main meal to stimulate the appetite, often in formal dining settings. We started the dinner with a trio of appetizers The restaurant is famous for its delicious appetizers like bruschetta and stuffed mushrooms

Examples of usage

The refreshments at the party were a selection of finger foods and cocktails.
Guests enjoyed the refreshments provided, especially the refreshing fruit punch.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

during a break

Refreshment can also mean a short break or rest period during an activity or work. It allows individuals to relax, recharge, and regain energy before continuing.

Synonyms

break, pause, recess.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
refreshment	Use this word when talking about drinks or light snacks, usually served during a break or social gathering. "They served refreshments at the meeting " "Let's grab some refreshments during the intermission "
break	This word is best used to describe a short period of rest or relaxation from work or activities. "Let's take a 10-minute coffee break " "She needed a break from studying "
recess	This word is often used in the context of schools, referring to a scheduled period when students can play and take a break from classes. It can also mean a temporary break in formal proceedings, like in court or meetings. "The children are outside playing during recess " "The court is in recess for 15 minutes "
pause	This word is suitable when talking about a brief stop or interruption in an activity or process. "He paused the video to answer the phone " "There was a long pause before she replied "

Examples of usage

After a long meeting, employees took a brief refreshment to grab a coffee and stretch their legs.
The hikers stopped for a quick refreshment before continuing their journey.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old French 'refreschier', which means 'to refresh', linking it to feelings of renewal.
It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used to describe actions that restore energy or vitality.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, offering refreshments to guests is a sign of hospitality and kindness.
Sports events often have designated 'refreshment' breaks where athletes can rehydrate and refuel.

Health & Nutrition

Consuming refreshing drinks, like water with lemon, can help maintain hydration and support overall health.
Fruits like watermelon and cucumber are often considered natural refreshment options due to their high water content.

Literature

Many poets use the idea of refreshment metaphorically to describe emotional renewal or recovery.
In children's stories, characters frequently seek refreshment after adventures, symbolizing rest and recovery.

Pop Culture

Various soft drink brands market their products as 'refreshing,' aiming to evoke feelings of pleasure and satisfaction.
In movies, scenes of people enjoying refreshing drinks often depict relaxation and enjoyment, making it a popular cinematic trope.

Translations

Translations of the word "refreshment" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refresco

🇮🇳 ताज़गी

🇩🇪 Erfrischung

🇮🇩 penyegar

🇺🇦 освіження

🇵🇱 odświeżenie

🇯🇵 リフレッシュ

🇫🇷 rafraîchissement

🇪🇸 refresco

🇹🇷 serinlik

🇰🇷 상쾌함

🇸🇦 انتعاش

🇨🇿 osvěžení

🇸🇰 osvieženie

🇨🇳 清爽

🇸🇮 osvežitev

🇮🇸 svalandi

🇰🇿 сергіту

🇬🇪 განახლება

🇦🇿 təzələnmə

🇲🇽 refresco

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,548, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14545 prostitute
14546 pavilion
14547 exclamation
14548 refreshment
14549 nap
14550 braking
14551 curly
...