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

Mongolian Cashmere Full-Zip Hoodie High-quality Mongolian cashmere makes this full-zip hoodie a more refined sweatshirt option. —Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 11 Jan. 2026

Pruning these plants in autumn makes gardens look more refined in winter and reduces the number of gardening chores in spring. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Jan. 2026

For something more refined, visit the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables, which offers collections of rare plants and picturesque flowering trees. —Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

Of course, these nostalgic details add a more refined finish to the relaxed fit, giving it just enough oomph to elevate your most basic outfits. —Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 10 Jan. 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