refinement

noun

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

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.
Sunday Rose, in a layered ensemble of a zippered top, voluminous skirt, and a two-toned jacket, embodies the collection’s theme of youthful refinement. Ty Gaskins, WWD, 31 Jan. 2025 This stage involves careful planning, execution and refinement, including critical technical decisions such as choosing technologies and defining architecture. Paul Kovalenko, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025 From giving your kitchen an entirely new look to adding an air of elegance and refinement to your living room, these are the small paint projects that can completely transform your space in 2025. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 18 Jan. 2025 Kennedy recommends grounding your home with harmonious elements like flowing water and metal accents for balance and refinement. Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 17 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near refinement

Cite this Entry

“Refinement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/refinement. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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