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

This spectacular convergence of talent has always produced a bevy of memorable fashion moments, with the red carpet looks combining the refinement of the Academy Awards and the carefree freshness of the Emmys. —Kevin Huynh, InStyle, 11 Jan. 2026

These two skates by Levito boasted her refinement. —Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2026

Experience, education, and ongoing refinement continue to shape his work within the field. —Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 9 Jan. 2026

Queen Letizia of Spain embraced the refinement of a kitten heel for the Pascua Militar ceremony in Madrid on Tuesday, opting for a black version of the style. —Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 6 Jan. 2026

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