1
as in improvement
an instance of notable progress in the development of knowledge, technology, or skill
the recent refinements in this area of medical technology
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2
as in accomplishment
a high level of taste and enlightenment as a result of extensive intellectual training and exposure to the arts
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
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3
as in elegance
dignified or restrained beauty of form, appearance, or style
although she can afford all the jewelry that money can buy, she dresses with the gentle refinement that only taste can bestow
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Examples Sentences
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Recent Examples of refinement
Indiana limestone is prized for its refinement and durability—a fitting choice, then as today, for The Frick Collection in New York City.
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Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 6 Dec. 2024
China's dominance of the global supply chain for these minerals, and the relative underdevelopment of other nations' extraction and refinement capabilities means several industries could be impacted by the new measures.
—Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024
The candles of chief concern are those made from paraffin, which is a cheap byproduct primarily sourced from the refinement of petroleum.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024
Continuous monitoring and iterative refinement are key to long-term success.
—Tamas Kadar, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for refinement 
Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 6 Dec. 2024
China's dominance of the global supply chain for these minerals, and the relative underdevelopment of other nations' extraction and refinement capabilities means several industries could be impacted by the new measures.
—Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 4 Dec. 2024
The candles of chief concern are those made from paraffin, which is a cheap byproduct primarily sourced from the refinement of petroleum.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN, 29 Nov. 2024
Continuous monitoring and iterative refinement are key to long-term success.
—Tamas Kadar, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for refinement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refinement
Noun
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In fact, in a small 2023 study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, adults with spinal cord injury who completed 12 weeks of upper-body ergometer rowing saw improvements in their cardio fitness.Christa Sgobba, SELF, 3 Jan. 2025
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For example, a company might implement an AI system to improve customer service without setting specific targets for improvement.Jo Debecker, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025
Noun
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This helps interviewers see your work as part of a larger purpose rather than isolated accomplishments.Gina Riley, Forbes, 3 Jan. 2025
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While financial considerations are undoubtedly crucial, pursuing purpose adds a profound layer of fulfillment, driving long-term satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment.Essence, Essence, 2 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Erivo’s creation featured an abstract print that embodies casual elegance.Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 10 Jan. 2025
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This British brand’s collection honors wisdom, elegance, adaptability and intelligence, which are attributed to the snake in the Chinese zodiac.Ty Gaskins, WWD, 10 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Tom also asked for Zendaya’s parents’ blessing well in advance.Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 7 Jan. 2025
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The consent calendar items are part of the agenda and so must be announced in advance per Civil Code Section 4930.Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2025
Noun
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For Modi and his party, Indian civilization is inseparable from Hinduism, although critics say the party's philosophy is rooted in Hindu supremacy.Fox News, Fox News, 13 Jan. 2025
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Crete has long sat at the geographic crossroads of major civilizations, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Generative User Interfaces Drive Next-Gen User Experience The rise of generative user interfaces represents a significant advancement in how users interact with applications.Janakiram MSV, Forbes, 12 Jan. 2025
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With sleep disorders affecting approximately 70 million Americans and poor sleep linked to serious health risks like heart disease, stroke and cognitive decline, the Tone Buds represent a significant advancement in personal sleep technology.Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report, Fox News, 12 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Connection to a high-performance culture can help, as Forbes point out that culture drives performance.Chris Westfall, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025
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Here are five examples of divination techniques that different cultures have developed to cope with life’s uncertainties.Michelle Aroney and David Zeitlyn, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Days 4-5: Yoga and Sound Healing in Agra The colossal majesty of the Taj Mahal is worth a trip in itself.Marion Miller, Travel + Leisure, 27 Dec. 2024
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People have been tippling there for more than four hundred years, and the wine list has the heft—and the persuasive majesty—of a Gutenberg Bible.Anthony Lane, The New Yorker, 16 Dec. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Refinement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refinement. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.
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