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refine

verb

ri-ˈfīn How to pronounce refine (audio)
Definition of refinenext
as in to improve
to make better worked on refining her backhand before the big tennis match

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of refine New data guides prototype The high-temperature measurements now give Westinghouse engineers more evidence for refining their analytical models. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2026 The interior of the Crosstrek feels functional, and premium materials in the final configuration make its cabin more refined. — Charles Singh, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026 There’s also capryloyl salicylic acid (LHA), a gentle exfoliating acid that refines rough texture as cell turnover begins to slow over time. — Emily Orofino, Allure, 15 Sep. 2026 The interior design deserves a setting as refined as the menu. — Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refine
  1. improve
  2. enhance
Verb
  • Computer simulations indicate that one of the geometries studied by the team could improve NMR sensitivity and accuracy by roughly an order of magnitude.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 23 Sep. 2026
  • The agreement bucks the utility’s typical process of building, operating and sometimes improving power plants and other infrastructure, such as transmission lines, and then collecting that money from customers in their monthly electricity bills.
    — Kristi Swartz, AJC.com, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of improve
Verb
  • Enduring principles can be enhanced by the essential replenishment of ideas — notions that might seem to contradict but that also sure can live in harmony.
    — Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 19 Sep. 2026
  • The project is designed to improve reliability, reduce maintenance requirements, enhance worker safety, and extend the facility’s operational life.
    — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 19 Sep. 2026
Definition of enhance

Browse Nearby Words

refinancing
refine
refined
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Refine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refine. Accessed 27 Sep. 2026.

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