refresh

American  

[ri-fresh] / rɪˈfrɛʃ /

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.

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verb (used without object)

1. to take refreshment, especially food or drink.

2. to become fresh or vigorous again; revive.

refresh British  

/ 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

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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

The only clear morals of “Transcription” have to do with its insistence on mystery, and on art that teases the mind and refreshes the senses.

From The Wall Street Journal

It was indeed refreshing, but no matter how much he drank, he felt parched.

From Literature

Though concentrated, it’s situated among newly refreshed spaces containing lavishly ornamented mummy coffins, carved grave stelae, canopic jars, tomb wall reliefs and the preserved body of a woman named Gautseshenu.

From The Wall Street Journal

With her working week deep in the world of AI, she says it's refreshing to use her hands to make something tangible.

From BBC

"It gives players the opportunity to be on the pitch and gives options to change and refresh the game."

From BBC

Related Words

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