refection
/ri'fekʃn/
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- a light meal or repast