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

Successful strikes on energy infrastructure have reduced how much refined product Russia can get to market. —Ian Bremmer, Time, 20 Nov. 2025

Momofuku Ko, David Chang’s take on fine dining, began as a 12-seat counter in 2008 and eventually moved to a larger, more refined space that could accommodate 18. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 19 Nov. 2025

The emeralds introduce a cool, refined depth that enhances both her colouring and the monarchy’s visual identity. —Julia Teti, Footwear News, 19 Nov. 2025

Station Tote Bag Can a tote bag evoke refined style? —Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 19 Nov. 2025

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