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

From the sidewalk outside the new Parkside on Dresden development, stepping through Mirae’s wide, weighty door feels like passing into a bubble of refinement and taste. —Henri Hollis, AJC.com, 12 Mar. 2026

Wine, by contrast, was associated with elegance, class, refinement and sophistication. —Logan Pant, The Conversation, 10 Mar. 2026

The Sechrest is designed for those who value both refinement and lifestyle. —Trident Real Estate, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026

Enagbare lacks refinement as a pass rusher. —Daniel Popper, New York Times, 9 Mar. 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