refinement

noun

re·​fine·​ment ri-ˈfīn-mənt 

1

: the action or process of refining

2

: the quality or state of being refined : cultivation

3

a

: a refined feature or method

b

: a highly refined distinction : subtlety

c

: a contrivance or device intended to improve or perfect

Synonyms

• improvement
• advance
• advancement

Examples of refinement in a Sentence

the recent refinements in this area of medical technology

had a sense of refinement that her small hometown couldn't satisfy, so she moved to New York City to be closer to great museums and concert halls

Recent Examples on the Web

Although the tools were small, the authors state that this is not synonymous with a lack of refinement. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 3 July 2025

The cordial greeting immediately indicates the refinement of what is to follow. —John Mariani, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has begun implementing the next phase of its service standard refinements as part of ongoing efforts to improve mail delivery for customers nationwide. —Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 July 2025

This one, sold by Lulu and Georgia, has a vintage air that will make your room reek of refinement. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 2 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for refinement

• misalignment
• nonalignment
• realignment
• reassignment
• reconsignment
• alignment
• alinement
• assignment
• confinement
• consignment

Kids Definition

refinement

noun

re·​fine·​ment ri-ˈfīn-mənt 

1

: the action or process of refining

2

: the state of being refined : cultivation

3

a

: something that has been refined

refinements in dress and behavior

b

: something intended to improve or refine