refreshments

Everyday

1. small amounts of food and drink offered at a meeting, event or journey. tree →
2. (euphemism, polite) alcoholic drinks, as in "liquid refreshments" or "a few refreshments". tree →
3. (formal, singular) the feeling of being refreshed. tree →

In the lessons

Used on invitations and notices for food and drinks; as a euphemism, a polite, jokey way to talk about alcohol, all regions. "Liquid refreshment" almost always hints at beer or wine.

Examples

• Refreshments will be served after the school play. tree →
• We sold refreshments at the sports day to raise money. tree →
• The grown-ups went to the pub for some liquid refreshment. tree →
• "Had a few refreshments last night, did we?" the neighbour teased. tree →
• Light refreshments include tea, juice and biscuits. tree →
• The coach stopped for refreshments halfway. tree →
• Shortly afterward, refreshments, consisting mostly of Camel's hump and ribs, were served to the company. tree →

Note

Usually plural. On a school notice it means snacks and drinks; among adults with a wink it means alcohol. In maths problems refreshments are often things sold at a stall with prices to add up.