/fresh"euhn/ , v.t.
1. to make fresh; refresh, revive, or renew: We need a good rain to freshen the flowers.
2. to remove saltiness from.
3. Naut. to preserve (a rope in use) from prolonged friction or concentrated stress on any one part.
v.i.
4. to become or grow fresh.
5. (of a cow)
a. to commence giving milk after calving.
b. to give birth.
6. freshen up , to make oneself feel freshly clean or neat, as by washing, changing clothes, etc.: to freshen up after a long trip.
[ 1690-1700; FRESH + -EN 1 ]