Refreshment means something that makes you feel restored or revived, especially after you've been working hard or feeling tired. Most commonly, refreshments are light foods and drinks served at events or gatherings. When a sign at the school play says “refreshments will be served,” you can expect cookies, juice, or snacks during intermission.

The word captures that feeling of being refreshed: renewed energy, a lifted mood, relief from heat or thirst. After running around at recess on a hot day, a cold glass of water provides refreshment. After concentrating hard on homework, a walk outside might offer mental refreshment.

At parties, meetings, or school events, refreshments usually means simple foods meant to energize people without being a full meal. A birthday party might feature cake and lemonade as refreshments. A community meeting might offer coffee and donuts. These aren't meant to stuff you full, but to perk you up and keep you comfortable.

The word suggests something light and pleasant rather than heavy or complicated. You wouldn't call Thanksgiving dinner “refreshments,” but you might describe the iced tea and crackers served beforehand that way.