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 bezels appear marginally slimmer but the overall design is a refinement rather than a reinvention. — Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 This shift toward comfort and refinement is also expanding how designers use denim across silhouettes and categories. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 27 Aug. 2026 This means moving beyond passive consumption and toward a rigorous, iterative process of trial, error, and refinement. — Jason Corso, Time, 26 Aug. 2026 Just next door, sister restaurant Café Yaya reflects similar refinement that spans the entire day. — Nicole Schnitzler, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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
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