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

• advance
• advancement
• breakthrough
• enhancement
• improvement

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

Available in two sizes, 39.5mm and 41mm, the watch introduces a number of refinements that focus on proportion, wearability, and technical improvements, while staying true to the DNA of the Superman line. —Matthew Catellier, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025

Tucked behind locked iron gates on one of the Village’s most storied carriageways, the one-bedroom, two-bathroom residence is a fusion of historic charm and modern refinement. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 Apr. 2025

However, nearly a decade of analytical refinements allowed the researchers to reconcile the different data sources and reveal Vesta's internal structure. —Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025

His game needs a lot of refinement, but the upside is there. —Tashan Reed, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025

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