WordGarden.iorefuel
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪfjˈuːl/
US
- /rifˈjuəl/
Meanings
Verb
to put more fuel into a vehicle, aircraft, or machine
to eat or drink in order to restore your energy
Beyond the definition
Just like a car needs fuel to keep going, you need more energy and supplies after hard work. To refuel means to fill something up again after some of its fuel, energy, or supplies have been used. It can be literal, like putting gasoline in a car, but it is also often used in a figurative way. After a long hike, you might refuel with a good meal and some rest. Athletes refuel with water and food, while creative people may refuel by finding new ideas. Think of it as filling the tank so you can keep going.
To refuel means to replenish something that has been used up, restoring it to a usable state. While most commonly associated with vehicles—filling a car, plane, or boat with fuel—the word extends far beyond gasoline and jet fuel. It describes any process of restoration or replenishment.
Literally, you can refuel a vehicle at a gas station: "They stopped at the highway rest stop to refuel before continuing their road trip." But more often, "refuel" is used metaphorically. After a demanding week at work, you might need to refuel by spending time with loved ones or pursuing hobbies. A runner will refuel after a marathon with water and nutritious food.
The concept of refueling implies a depletion of resources followed by a deliberate effort to restore them. It's about regaining energy, motivation, or supplies so you can continue functioning at your best. A writer might refuel their creativity by reading inspiring books, while a teacher might refuel her patience with a quiet moment alone.
So, whether it's filling up the gas tank or recharging your spirit, to refuel is to restore what's been used and prepare for what lies ahead.
Examples
- 1
Fuel stop
We stopped at a gas station to refuel before the long drive.
- 2
Aircraft
The helicopter had to refuel on a small island before continuing north.
- 3
Food and energy
After the game, the players refueled with sandwiches and fruit.
- Patternrefuel with + food/drink
eat or drink something to get energy again
- 4
Rest
I went home at lunch to refuel before another busy afternoon.
See also
Forms and spellings
6 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- refuelverb
Forms
- refueling-ing formverb
- refuelling-ing formverb
- refueledpast tenseverb
- refuelledpast tensepast participleverb
- refuelsverb