refine

[ ri-fahyn ]

verb (used with object)

, re·fined, re·fin·ing.

1. to bring to a fine or a pure state; free from impurities:

   to refine metal, sugar, or petroleum.

2. to purify from what is coarse, vulgar, or debasing; make elegant or cultured.
3. to bring to a finer state or form by purifying.
4. to make more fine, subtle, or precise:

   to refine one's writing style.

verb (used without object)

, re·fined, re·fin·ing.

1. to become pure:

   The silver is refining in the furnace.

2. to become more fine, elegant, or polished:

   His parents hope that his manners will refine as he gets older.

3. to make fine distinctions in thought or language.

verb phrase

1. to improve by inserting finer distinctions, superior elements, etc.:

   to refine on one's previous work.

refine

/ rɪˈfaɪn /

verb

1. to make or become free from impurities, sediment, or other foreign matter; purify
2. tr to separate (a mixture) into pure constituents, as in an oil refinery
3. to make or become free from coarse characteristics; make or become elegant or polished
4. troften foll byout to remove (something impure or extraneous)
5. intr; often foll by on or upon to enlarge or improve (upon) by making subtle or fine distinctions
6. tr to make (language) more subtle or polished

Derived Forms

• reˈfinable, adjective

Other Words From

• re·fina·ble adjective
• re·finer noun
• prere·fine verb (used with object) prerefined prerefining
• self-re·fining adjective
• super·re·fine verb (used with object) superrefined superrefining
• unre·fining adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of refine¹

First recorded in 1575–85; re- + fine ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of refine¹

C16: from re- + fine ¹

Example Sentences

Both earthquakes occurred before the era of widespread internet service, and scientists are hopeful that more responses will help refine their understanding of the events.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump, fact-checked but not dissuaded, would go on to refine his lie, pivoting from claimed “reports” that deep-red portions of the south were being denied aid to claiming no would be getting any assistance because the money was all gone — spent, as it turns out, “on housing for illegal migrants.”

From Salon

With so many wickets lost to attacking shots, they may have to refine their approach, which will be difficult given their much-stated desire to be aggressive.

From BBC

A shock T20 series defeat by Sri Lanka followed, though with a few key players rested, but the past year has seen England refine their aggression under coach Jon Lewis and they have developed a well-rounded, consistent squad.

From BBC

However, as hackers continue to refine their tactics, experts say users need more than 2FA to guarantee security.

From Salon

Related Words

• civilize
• clarify
• cultivate
• hone
• improve