# refurbishment

/ɹiˈfɝbɪʃmənt/ (US) · /ɹɪfˈɜːbɪʃmənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/refurbishment
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the process of cleaning, repairing, and improving a building or a piece of equipment to make it look new again.

For teachers: the act of renovating or redecorating a structure or object to restore it to a functional or aesthetically pleasing condition.

## Examples

- The hotel is closed for a major refurbishment.
- After the refurbishment, the old library featured modern seating, faster internet, and a new café area.
- The council approved a multi-million pound refurbishment of the historic theatre, ensuring that the original architectural details were preserved while updating the electrical systems.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general process; countable when referring to a specific project or instance of renovation.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.