REFINE Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

refine

verb

ri-ˈfīn

Definition of refine

as in to improve

to make better worked on refining her backhand before the big tennis match

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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.

Recent Examples of refine Rather than requiring an accurate visual model of the target, the drone can begin with only a rough estimate of where the branch is and use touch to progressively refine its position and orientation. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026 The Meta settlement — with protections the company says could become industry standards — will give the social media giant a year to refine its approach. — Barbara Ortutay, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026 Jet fuel is refined from crude oil, supplies of which have been severely disrupted by the Iran war. — Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 America catches up to the Mediterranean bowl Kfoury spent nearly a decade refining the model. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for refine

Recent Examples of Synonyms for refine

Verb

Chelsea, despite missing out on a late move for Lamine Camara, and Tottenham have improved considerably, but that is more a reflection of previous dysfunction — and a lighter schedule — than inspired recruitment.

— Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
Kia's base model can feel a bit barebones, but upper trims feature plenty of creature comforts and tech enhancements that improve its driving and ownership experience.

— Keith Laing, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of improve

Verb

Meta agreed to impose changes including a default two-hour daily time limit for teens across Facebook and Instagram, muted notifications during school hours, and enhanced parental controls, with more updates potentially on the horizon.

— Ashley Capoot, CNBC, 29 Aug. 2026
Leaders must prioritize building cognitive and identity infrastructure, focusing on *how* people think and their self-authorship, ensuring AI enhances human judgment rather than standardizing it.

— Glenn Llopis, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of enhance

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refinancing

refine

refined

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“Refine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refine. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of refine

verb

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