If you're wondering if refurbish implies the existence of an earlier furbish, you are on the right track. Furbish was borrowed into English in the 14th century from Anglo-French furbiss-, a distant relative of Old High German furben, meaning "to polish." In its earliest uses furbish also meant "to polish," but it developed an extended sense of "renovate" shortly before English speakers created refurbish with the same meaning in the 17th century. These days refurbish is the more common of the two words, although furbish does continue to be used.
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebIn 2020, after Gov. Ned Lamont rejected a $330 million proposal to refurbish the plant, MIRA board members voted to shut down facility operations by June 30, 2022, though a delay is expected. Alison Cross, Hartford Courant, 27 June 2022 That’s why, eventually, Dombrow and Fallon want to be able to refurbish shoes, noting that certain elements—like the carbon-fiber plate—will outlive others, like the midsole, upper, or outsole. Lisa Jhung, Outside Online, 1 Feb. 2022 They are paid 40 cents to $2 an hour and build or refurbish everything from bunk beds to horse trailers. Michael Braga, The Arizona Republic, 19 July 2022 Across the country, 62,000 people will be able to retain their jobs for two years, including McDonald's top management, as Vkusno & Tochka plans to gradually refurbish around 850 restaurants. Mary Ilyushina, Washington Post, 12 June 2022 Still, the exhibitor’s biggest project has been one of upmarket transformation, overseeing a half a billion-dollar investment and modernization plan to refurbish existing theaters and develop new and premium offerings. Ben Croll, Variety, 10 May 2022 In addition to building two new gas plants, Xcel plans to refurbish two of its existing gas plants. Mike Hughlett, Star Tribune, 25 June 2021 Prisoners, according to both invoices and the Department of Corrections, did not refurbish or create the locks on the doors. Joseph Darius Jaafari, The Arizona Republic, 21 July 2022 The railway company will refurbish its luxury sleeper service, including reducing the number of guests on board at one time to ensure improved service for passengers. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 2 June 2022 See More