as in improving
to make better
worked on refining her backhand before the big tennis match
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Recent Examples of refining
This was by design, as Romvari exercised patience to make this moment count, refining her visual style and tightening her narrative approach.
—
David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
In the past this kind of possum-tracking technique seemed impossible, but in the last two years, Sanjar, Cove and Jeremy Dixon, manager of the refuge, have made significant strides in refining the concept to be a weapon against the invasive and highly destructive snakes.
—Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026
By generating ideas, testing them and refining the results in a self-improving loop, ASI-Evolve mirrors the trial-and-error process of not just AI model building, but also science and math research.
—New Atlas, 19 Apr. 2026
This shift isn’t about abandoning discipline but refining it.
—Samuel Mueller, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026
The foundation states that winning teams are paired with professional mentors, supported in refining their budgets and project plans, and made eligible for grants of up to $1,000 to actually carry out their ideas.
—Ethan Stone, Miami Herald, 11 Apr. 2026
The researchers tackled this by refining neutron scattering, a technique that has been around since the 1950s.
—Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 11 Apr. 2026
The virtual program will include development support to strengthen their screenplays, as well as advice on creating a compelling project package and refining their pitching skills in preparation for their residency in Los Angeles.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 8 Apr. 2026
But Comey has thrived, refining her own particular jolie laide aesthetic, with its offbeat palettes and silhouettes and emphasis on texture.
—Maya Singer, Vogue, 8 Apr. 2026
David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026
In the past this kind of possum-tracking technique seemed impossible, but in the last two years, Sanjar, Cove and Jeremy Dixon, manager of the refuge, have made significant strides in refining the concept to be a weapon against the invasive and highly destructive snakes.
—Bill Kearney, Sun Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026
By generating ideas, testing them and refining the results in a self-improving loop, ASI-Evolve mirrors the trial-and-error process of not just AI model building, but also science and math research.
—New Atlas, 19 Apr. 2026
This shift isn’t about abandoning discipline but refining it.
—Samuel Mueller, Fortune, 12 Apr. 2026
The foundation states that winning teams are paired with professional mentors, supported in refining their budgets and project plans, and made eligible for grants of up to $1,000 to actually carry out their ideas.
—Ethan Stone, Miami Herald, 11 Apr. 2026
The researchers tackled this by refining neutron scattering, a technique that has been around since the 1950s.
—Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 11 Apr. 2026
The virtual program will include development support to strengthen their screenplays, as well as advice on creating a compelling project package and refining their pitching skills in preparation for their residency in Los Angeles.
—Matt Grobar, Deadline, 8 Apr. 2026
But Comey has thrived, refining her own particular jolie laide aesthetic, with its offbeat palettes and silhouettes and emphasis on texture.
—Maya Singer, Vogue, 8 Apr. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refining
Verb
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The demonstration of fast-improving robotic speed and autonomy comes as China’s tech industry is rapidly scaling up mass production of humanoid robots to explore possible uses in the real world.—
Jeremy Hsu,
ArsTechnica,
20 Apr. 2026
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There is little evidence that gelatin supplements are useful for managing diarrhea, improving joint pain, or improving bone health.—
Amber J. Tresca,
Verywell Health,
20 Apr. 2026
Verb
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The move is also in line with a number of states that have been adding or enhancing production incentives to grow local economies and provide alternatives Stateside to hubs like Los Angeles, which continues to contend with runaway production.—
Jill Goldsmith,
Deadline,
22 Apr. 2026
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The best Korean skin care routine for mature skin is all about enhancing skin elasticity and targeting visible signs of aging.—
Sarah Y. Wu,
Glamour,
22 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Refining.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refining. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.
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