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

Other refinements could include a dispute resolution mechanism and a joint task force to assess project viability. —Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2025

Unlike Indianapolis Colts first-rounder Laiatu Latu and Los Angeles Rams first-rounder Jared Verse, Turner, who is still only 22, needed serious refinement as a pass rusher. —Alec Lewis, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025

Chanel, in contrast, is the epitome of Parisian refinement, structured, polished, and timeless. —Christopher Claxton, Billboard, 10 Oct. 2025

Forgrave played a meaningful role in the development and refinement of this component, contributing insights and perspectives that helped shape its evolution over time. —Nia Bowers, USA Today, 10 Oct. 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