Definition

Noun 1. A light meal; a repast: A simple, often informal meal, typically smaller and less substantial than a main meal. It implies refreshment or sustenance without the formality or quantity of a full dinner or feast. 2. The act of refreshing or restoring oneself, especially with food or drink: This older or more formal sense focuses on the restorative purpose of taking nourishment.

Examples of Usage

• After the long walk, they stopped at the inn for a refection of bread and cheese.
• The monks gathered in the refectory for their midday refection, a simple meal eaten in silence.
• (Formal/Archaic) He sought refection and rest after his arduous journey.

Advanced Usage

• The word is often used in historical or literary contexts, particularly when describing the meals of monastic communities. The room where such meals are eaten is called a refectory.
• It can be used metaphorically to describe something that provides mental or spiritual refreshment in a way similar to how food refreshes the body.
  • The beautiful music was a refection for her weary soul.

Variants and Related Words

• Refectory (noun): A dining hall, especially in a monastery, college, or school.
• Refect (verb, archaic): To refresh, especially with food or drink.

Synonyms

• Snack
• Repast
• Collation
• Refreshment
• Light meal

Antonyms

• Feast
• Banquet
• Gorge

Notes on Usage

• Refection is a somewhat formal and now less common word. In everyday modern English, words like "snack," "light meal," or "refreshment" are more frequently used.
• Its use often carries a tone of simplicity, modesty, or historical setting.

Noun

1. a light meal or repast