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

This season, the introduction of the Heritage 1917 pays homage to one of Movado’s earliest archival designs—defined by its refined square case, vintage numerals and artful balance of form and function. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 14 Nov. 2025

Choose unrefined or virgin coconut oil over refined options, and perform a patch test to help avoid irritation or allergic reactions. —Carrie Madormo, Health, 14 Nov. 2025

This cashmere headband is a refined alternative to a beanie. —Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025

Sleek, perfectly structured, and significantly marked down, this refined shoulder bag quickly elevates any outfit, from jeans and a T-shirt to a date-night LBD. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 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