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

Aman’s signature quiet elegance will be evident throughout the interior, with refined, minimalist decor that takes inspiration from ryokans (Japanese inns). —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 22 Jan. 2026

The resort’s many restaurants include Basalt, which serves refined steakhouse fare with cuts sourced from Utah ranches, while the convivial 20th Hole pairs burgers with wildly over-the-top milkshakes that are best enjoyed between rounds on the golf simulators. —Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026

But as electric foiling becomes quieter, smoother, and more refined, the NAVI feels like a sign that this once-experimental tech is maturing – and carving out a more practical niche for itself on the water. —New Atlas, 21 Jan. 2026

Their Restaurant Week participation is a good excuse to experience the kind of refined hospitality that’s become harder and harder to find nowadays. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 21 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