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

Foodies can savor global flavors at spots like Ghee and the ultra-refined Ogawa, opt for a dose of Nikkei cuisine popping up around the city, or dig into the growing farm dinner scene at spots like Ford’s Farm. —Carrie Honaker, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Feb. 2026

According to pros, this season’s manicures remix the patterns many of us loved growing up, such as glitter and stripes, but with a refined update that’s fit for 2026. —Annie Blay-Tettey, Allure, 19 Feb. 2026

The Uerzell is a refined slip-on mule with clean, sculptural lines and a visible cork midsole. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 19 Feb. 2026

On Monday, the brand launched ClassiQ, a men’s and women’s collection of refined styles built on durable construction, premium materials and iconic fits. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 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