refurbish

What does "refurbish" mean?
To refurbish means to renovate, redecorate, or repair something—usually a building, room, or piece of equipment—to bring it back to a clean, functional, or attractive state. The mental image is of taking something that has become worn, dull, or broken and giving it a "fresh start" through physical labor and updates. This word is often used in professional or real estate contexts, implying a significant improvement rather than just a quick fix or light cleaning. While you might "clean" your kitchen, you "refurbish" it when you replace the cabinets, update the appliances, and repaint the walls to restore its original luster.
"refurbish" in conversation
Office renovation
Are we still on track to open the new branch on Monday?
Are we still on track to open the new branch on Monday?
Everything is ready. The team worked all weekend to refurbish the lobby area.
Everything is ready. The team worked all weekend to refurbish the lobby area.
Used to describe a significant professional update to a space.
Selling a laptop
I’m looking for a cheaper MacBook for school.
I’m looking for a cheaper MacBook for school.
You should check the Apple site for a refurbished model; they’re basically like new.
You should check the Apple site for a refurbished model; they’re basically like new.
Refurbished is a standard industry term for electronics that have been repaired and tested.
"refurbish" in a sentence
We need to refurbish the old guest room before my parents arrive.
We need to refurbish the old guest room before my parents arrive.
The city council voted to refurbish the historic library to preserve its architecture.
The city council voted to refurbish the historic library to preserve its architecture.
The company specializes in refurbishing vintage furniture, carefully restoring each piece to its former glory.
The company specializes in refurbishing vintage furniture, carefully restoring each piece to its former glory.