From Latin *refectio* (restoration, refreshment), derived from *reficere* (to remake, restore), a compound of *re-* (again) + *facere* (to make/do). The word passed into Portuguese via Old French *réfection*, evolving into the modern form *refeição* through regular sound changes, including the nasalization typical of Portuguese.

In Brazil, *almoço* (lunch) is traditionally the most important *refeição* of the day — a hot, cooked meal often including rice, beans, protein, and salad. The evening meal (*jantar*) tends to be lighter. The phrase *hora da refeição* ("mealtime") carries a social weight in Brazilian culture, as meals are often communal, unhurried affairs. Learners should note that *refeição* is the general/formal term; colloquially, Brazilians often just say *almoço*, *jantar*, or *comida*.