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 of refinement

• 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

Smoothness, refinement and dynamic balance are emphasized. —New Atlas, 22 Nov. 2025

Most durable policy emerges from gradual refinement, not sweeping reform. —Stefani Langehennig, The Conversation, 21 Nov. 2025

It will be equipped with Enata’s proprietary foiling system—the same one that appeared on 32-foot predecessor Spirit, but with a few refinements. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Nov. 2025

In fact, the Coach Station Tote Bag proves refinement with its classic tote style. —Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 19 Nov. 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