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

With the inimitable Chef Devin Denzer at the helm, Atsumeru utilizes the exacting refinement of traditional Japanese technique and blends it with the discipline, color, and loveliness of Nordic fare. —Wendy Altschuler, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

This particular version has more horsepower, more refinement, more engineering upgrades -- even a heated front seat belt. —Morgan Korn, ABC News, 19 Jan. 2026

This simple, stylized expression of refinement also shines through on the Admiral Giorgio Armani 72M build named No Rush, the first of two custom 236-foot yachts conceived by the designer himself in partnership with the Italian Sea Group. —Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 18 Jan. 2026

These refinements are intended to extend plasma performance beyond the capabilities of previous generations. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 15 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