English Reference

Word

refresh

Phoneticsre·fresh, stress on the second syllable

/ɹɪˈfɹɛʃ/

Definitions

01to revitalize

B1 · Intermediate

v. to make someone or something feel fresh, cool, or full of energy again.

v. to restore strength, energy, or a sense of freshness to a person or object.

“A quick shower will refresh you after your long flight.”

“The short break in the mountains served to refresh the team's spirits before they tackled the final phase of the project.”

Antonyms

02to update a screen

A2 · Elementary Computing

v. to click a button so a webpage or app shows the newest information.

v. to reload a digital document or interface to reflect the most recent data changes. Often used as an ambitransitive verb.

“If the video doesn't start, try to refresh the page.”

“The trader had to refresh the browser constantly to keep track of the rapidly fluctuating stock prices during the opening hour.”

Synonyms

03to remind yourself

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to look at information again so you remember it clearly.

v. to stimulate the memory by re-examining information or facts previously learned.

“I need to refresh my memory on the rules before we start the game.”

“The witness asked to see her original statement to refresh her memory regarding the exact sequence of events that night.”

Usage

usually used in the phrase 'refresh one's memory'.

04a digital update

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Computing Technical

n. the act of updating a screen or the speed at which it updates.

n. the action of updating a display or the periodic energizing of computer memory to maintain data integrity.

“The app requires a manual refresh to show your new messages.”

“The high refresh rate of the new monitor ensures that fast-moving images appear smooth and without ghosting effects.”

Synonyms

Etymology

From Middle English refreshen, refreschen, refrisschen, from Old French refrescher (“to refresh”) (modern French rafraîchir), equivalent to re- + fresh.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

VERB

refresh(A2)

Domain

Computing

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference