as in improves
to make better
worked on refining her backhand before the big tennis match
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Recent Examples of refines
China also refines some 90% of rare earths.
—
Steven Lamy, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2026
The brand’s Carrera Chronograph 41mm glassbox refines Jack Heuer’s original 1963 vision created for motorsport timing.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 19 Jan. 2026
Lakan Lambanog refines the traditional coconut spirit into a smooth, elegant sip that feels right at home on the rocks.
—Ching Dee, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026
The denim industry has found an appreciation for linen and how the fiber enhances and refines what is traditionally considered to be a tough and rugged fabric.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 7 Jan. 2026
The new 2026 version refines those traits but adds a number of performance-enhancing design features.
—Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 5 Jan. 2026
The original was a brilliant but messy project, but the sequel refines those ideas and brings them into focus.
—Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 29 Dec. 2025
As healing continues, subtle changes are common as the nasal contour gradually refines into a permanent result.
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2025
Mario Badescu’s no-frills formula refines pores and soothes skin post-cleansing with witch hazel and rose water.
—Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 18 Nov. 2025
Steven Lamy, Fortune, 22 Jan. 2026
The brand’s Carrera Chronograph 41mm glassbox refines Jack Heuer’s original 1963 vision created for motorsport timing.
—Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 19 Jan. 2026
Lakan Lambanog refines the traditional coconut spirit into a smooth, elegant sip that feels right at home on the rocks.
—Ching Dee, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026
The denim industry has found an appreciation for linen and how the fiber enhances and refines what is traditionally considered to be a tough and rugged fabric.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 7 Jan. 2026
The new 2026 version refines those traits but adds a number of performance-enhancing design features.
—Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 5 Jan. 2026
The original was a brilliant but messy project, but the sequel refines those ideas and brings them into focus.
—Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 29 Dec. 2025
As healing continues, subtle changes are common as the nasal contour gradually refines into a permanent result.
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2025
Mario Badescu’s no-frills formula refines pores and soothes skin post-cleansing with witch hazel and rose water.
—Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 18 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refines
Verb
-
If a parent or roommate brings up an old issue, thank them for caring, then suggest a small step that improves daily life.—
Tarot.com,
New York Daily News,
6 Feb. 2026
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Marula and cacay oils supply skin with fatty acids and antioxidants that help support elasticity, while rosehip oil improves the look of tone and texture.—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
5 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
The instant espresso enhances the chocolate flavoring as if there isn't enough chocolate already.—
Nellah Bailey McGough,
Southern Living,
10 Feb. 2026
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The conditioner’s nourishing formula also tames frizz, boosts moisture, and enhances shine.—
Alyssa Morin,
InStyle,
9 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Refines.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refines. Accessed 11 Feb. 2026.
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