refined

adjective

re·​fined ri-ˈfīnd 

1

: free from impurities

2

: fastidious, cultivated

3

: precise, exact

a refined test for radioactivity

Synonyms of refined

• evolved
• improved
• advanced
• higher
• developed

Examples of refined in a Sentence

She has become more refined in her painting technique.

He has very refined manners.

refined and elegant works of art

Recent Examples on the Web

There are also a few suites that feature small, refined living spaces and balcony access. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Mar. 2026

Diesel, gasoline and aviation fuel are refined products of crude oil. —Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Mar. 2026

On the other hand, there are more refined and powerful options on the market. —Charles Singh, USA Today, 25 Mar. 2026

The spring numbers about plate discipline suggest there was a more unified and refined approach and that the Rangers hit mistakes. —Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 25 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for refined

• countersigned
• disinclined
• humankind
• interlined
• intertwined
• mastermind
• misaligned
• nonaligned
• predefined
• realigned
• reassigned
• recombined

Kids Definition

refined

adjective

re·​fined

ri-ˈfīnd

1

: socially well-trained : well-bred, cultivated

very refined manners

2

: freed from impurities : pure

refined sugar

3

: carried to a fine point : subtle

refined measurements