refined

adjective

re·​fined ri-ˈfīnd 

1

: free from impurities

2

: fastidious, cultivated

3

: precise, exact

a refined test for radioactivity

Synonyms

• advanced
• developed
• evolved
• forward
• high
• higher
• improved
• late
• progressive

Examples of refined in a Sentence

She has become more refined in her painting technique.

He has very refined manners.

refined and elegant works of art

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition to No. 4 oil and No. 10 motor vehicle parts, the list includes No. 12 gasoline and other refined petroleum products down $2.07 billion, three positions and out of the top 10 for the first time in at least two decades; and No. 52 solar panels, down 32 positions, and off $2.98 billion. —Ken Roberts, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025

Another option is to choose brands that use refined sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or dates. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 26 May 2025

Under an especially beautiful carbon fiber fairing lurks an inline four engine punching out over 230 hp (169 kW) of electronically refined hellfire. —Joe Salas may 25, New Atlas, 25 May 2025

The subtle pleat pattern gives the ruffle a refined character that pairs exceptionally well with quilts and starchy white duvet covers. —Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 24 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for refined

• countersigned
• disinclined
• humankind
• interlined
• intertwined
• mastermind
• misaligned
• nonaligned
• predefined
• realigned
• reassigned
• recombined

Kids Definition

refined

adjective

re·​fined

ri-ˈfīnd

1

: socially well-trained : well-bred, cultivated

very refined manners

2

: freed from impurities : pure

refined sugar

3

: carried to a fine point : subtle

refined measurements