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

Edwards is known for his refinement of radiocarbon dating techniques to study climate history and ocean chemistry. —Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes, 5 Jan. 2025

The 23-year-old’s devastating speed frightens defenders but his finishing needs a lot of refinement. —Jay Harris, The Athletic, 29 Dec. 2024

With further refinements through the ‘80s and ‘90s, the co-axial escapement was eventually adopted by Omega for broad commercialization. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2024

Now, the electric SUV is on sale in the US, with more power in the base model and six months more refinement for its software. —Ars Technica, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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