refinement

re·fine·ment

noun \ri-ˈfīn-mənt\

Definition of REFINEMENT

1

: the action or process of refining

2

: the quality or state of being refined : cultivation

3

a : a refined feature or method

b : a highly refined distinction : subtlety

c : a contrivance or device intended to improve or perfect

Examples of REFINEMENT

1. <the recent refinements in this area of medical technology>
2. <had a sense of refinement that her small hometown couldn't satisfy, so she moved to New York City to be closer to great museums and concert halls>

First Known Use of REFINEMENT

circa 1611

Related to REFINEMENT

Synonyms

advancement, breakthrough, enhancement, improvement, advance

Antonyms

setback

Related Words

quantum leap; amelioration, boost, heightening, increase, melioration, strengthening, upgrade, uplift, upswing, uptrend, upturn; betterment, development, elaboration, evolution, expansion, gestation, growth, maturation, perfection, ripening; civilization, edification, education, enlightenment; renaissance, renascence, revival; discovery, find, windfall; innovation, invention

Near Antonyms

breakdown, collapse, crash; hindrance, impediment, stumbling block; decadence, decay, declension, decline, decrease, degeneration, descent, deterioration, diminishment, downgrade, ebbing, failing, flagging, languishment, lapse, lessening, reduction, sinking, slowing, weakening, worsening; detriment, disablement, drawback, glitch, impairment, shortcoming

Rhymes with REFINEMENT

alignment, assignment, confinement, consignment, enshrinement