refinement

noun

re·​fine·​ment ri-ˈfīn-mənt How to pronounce refinement (audio)
Synonyms of refinementnext
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 of refinement

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The process isn’t perfect, but improving it is a matter of refinement — not blowing it all up. — Lisa Jarvis, Mercury News, 27 June 2026 In her case, that truth is still unfolding—measured not in reinvention, but in refinement. — Desjah Altvater, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 With Venus entering your sign, this is also a period of refinement, making this a good time to update your style, routines or prices. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026 That said, in the long run, some drivers are trading reliability and refinement for noise and attention. — John Paul, The Providence Journal, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for refinement

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of refinement was circa 1611

Rhymes for refinement

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Browse Nearby Words

refined wool fat
refinement
refiner
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Cite this Entry

“Refinement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refinement. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

refinement

noun
re·​fine·​ment ri-ˈfīn-mənt How to pronounce refinement (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on refinement

Nglish: Translation of refinement for Spanish Speakers

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