refine

verb

re·​fine ri-ˈfīn 

refined; refining

transitive verb

1

: to free (something, such as metal, sugar, or oil) from impurities or unwanted material

2

: to free from moral imperfection : elevate

3

: to improve or perfect by pruning or polishing

refine a poetic style

4

: to reduce in vigor or intensity

5

: to free from what is coarse, vulgar, or uncouth

intransitive verb

1

: to become pure or perfected

2

: to make improvement by introducing subtleties or distinctions

refiner noun

Synonyms

• ameliorate
• amend
• better
• enhance
• enrich
• help
• improve
• meliorate
• perfect
• upgrade

Examples of refine in a Sentence

The inventor of the machine spent years refining the design.

The class is meant to help you refine your writing style.

Recent Examples on the Web

For one, the boot’s stance angles have been refined over several years to hit that Goldilocks sweet spot: not too flexed, not too upright, and dead-flat edge-to-edge underfoot. —Outside Editors, Outside Online, 11 Nov. 2024

The automobile’s pontoon fenders and single rumble seat are esoteric enhancements, while the lack of door handles only further refines the extremely clean lines. —Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 4 Nov. 2024

Consider refining your priorities rather than leading with a fight or push-pull dynamic. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Nov. 2024

Terry also said that the group continues refining the concept, making small tweaks to each new design. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

refine

verb

re·​fine ri-ˈfīn 

refined; refining

1

: to come or bring to a pure state

refine sugar

2

: to make or become improved

3

: to free from what is vulgar

4

: to improve by introducing something that makes a small difference

refined upon the older methods

refiner noun

Medical Definition

refine

transitive verb

re·​fine ri-ˈfīn 

refined; refining

: to free (as sugar or oil) from impurities or unwanted material