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 The finish is long and refined, with lingering notes of dark honey, sweet baking spices and seasoned oak. — Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 Dinner at Xal was refined enough to rival many standalone fine-dining restaurants. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Aug. 2026 Each chef took the lead on one dish, but the team worked collaboratively to refine the final results and served them in unison. — Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 3 Aug. 2026 The partners plan to continue refining the reformer-engine integration before commercial deployments. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refine
  1. improve
  2. enhance
Verb
  • But the goal is to improve food access for vulnerable residents, Wang said.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Earlier this year, Atrium Health and WakeMed announced a merger agreement, projected to improve access and affordability across the state, accelerate growth and jobs in Wake County and transform mental healthcare.
    — Eva Flowe August 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 Aug. 2026
Definition of improve
Verb
  • Andrew Reiter, founder of Shield AI, advocates for autonomous drones to enhance military safety by replacing soldiers in dangerous reconnaissance.
    — John Werner, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • The chilliest option on this list, ice diving at Ultima Hotel Courchevel is a thrilling, health-boosting, and mood-enhancing water experience.
    — Rana Good, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Aug. 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 9 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on refine

Nglish: Translation of refine for Spanish Speakers

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