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

This insight should guide the refinement of website features and content to align with the needs of different customer segments. —Kimberli Lewis, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025

That early success set Berry on a path of rigorous testing, CAD modeling, and product refinement—culminating in the Drain Defender®, which now holds two U.S. patents. —Tyler Shepherd, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 2025

Loro Piana was a master class experience in the ultimate of Italian refinement and materiality. —Luisa Zargani, WWD, 2 Mar. 2025

Instead, the effort to protect and defend civil rights continues despite periodic pushbacks, yet also with many refinements and improvements. —Clarence Page, Chicago Tribune, 2 Mar. 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