freshen

[ fresh-uhn ]

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

   to freshen up after a long trip.

freshen

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˈfreshener, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of freshen¹

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

Example Sentences

Lidl has been freshening up the look of its stores, putting bakeries at the entrances and displaying more fruit and veg.

From BBC

Carsley said he would put "his own stamp" on the England squad during his time as interim boss and "freshen it up" with each get-together.

From BBC

Potts, 25, wins his ninth Test cap as England freshen up their pace bowlers after the gruelling exploits of the first Test.

From BBC

The couple also chose to preserve the funky kitchen island — a walnut dresser with drawers; they freshened it up with a new butcher block countertop to match the others.

From Los Angeles Times

Some fans said they wanted to see new attractions that would freshen things up.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cleanse
• enliven
• invigorate
• refresh
• sweeten