What does refurbishing mean?
Refurbishing means repairing, restoring, or improving something that already exists so that it looks renewed and functions properly again. It is frequently applied to buildings, homes, vehicles, machinery, furniture, and appliances. In a noun use, it names the process, as in “the refurbishing of an old hotel,” while in a verb use it describes the activity, as in “the company is refurbishing its offices.” The word often suggests substantial improvement rather than simple maintenance, but it can also cover cosmetic work such as refinishing surfaces or replacing worn fittings. Refurbishing differs from replacement because the existing object or structure is retained and improved rather than discarded. The term has positive associations with reuse, restoration, and extending the useful life of possessions, although the scope and expense of the work can vary widely.
The process of restoring an existing building, object, vehicle, or piece of equipment to good condition or an attractive, usable appearance.
"The careful refurbishing of the cinema restored its original decorative features."
Often used with “the” followed by “of,” as in “the refurbishing of the property.” It can also be used attributively, as in “refurbishing work.”
To restore or improve an existing building, object, vehicle, or piece of equipment so that it is in good condition or has a renewed appearance.
"The museum is refurbishing several galleries before the exhibition opens."
In this use, refurbishing is the present participle of refurbish and commonly appears with an object or in a progressive construction.
Rare in general use; the process is normally treated as an uncountable or mass noun.
"The successive refurbishings of the hotel preserved much of its original character."
Refurbishing gives a tired building, vehicle, or appliance a useful second life without discarding everything that made it worth keeping.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does refurbishing come from?
Refurbish was formed in English by combining the prefix re-, meaning again, with furbish, an older word meaning to polish, clean, or restore. The component furbish itself entered English from Old French and was already established before refurbish appeared in the early nineteenth century. Related forms include furbisher and refurbishment, while refurbishing developed as both the present participle of the verb and a noun naming the activity.
Related word forms
How refurbishing is actually used
The term is neutral and widely used in British and American English. It commonly refers to work that improves an existing property or object, sometimes extensively, although it can also describe relatively minor repairs and cosmetic renewal.
Easily confused with refurbishing
Refurbishing usually means repairing, restoring, or improving an existing item, whereas refurnishing means fitting it with new furniture or furnishings.