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

On December 6, the Nutcracker Prince and Sugar Plum Fairy appear for photos—refined cultural sophistication that reflects Orlando's evolving arts scene. —Lisa A. Beach, Southern Living, 5 Dec. 2025

The rapid construction timeline and successful completion of such extensive underground infrastructure showcase China’s refined expertise in large-scale urban transit development. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 4 Dec. 2025

These days, Banks is leaning into more refined looks. —Essence, 4 Dec. 2025

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo offers a refined stay in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Kawaramachi Sanjo district, just a 3-minute walk from Sanjo Station and near iconic sites like Gion and Nishiki Market. —Bon Appétit, Bon Appetit Magazine, 4 Dec. 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