refined

adjective

re·​fined ri-ˈfīnd 

1

: free from impurities

2

: fastidious, cultivated

3

: precise, exact

a refined test for radioactivity

Synonyms of refined

• evolved
• improved
• advanced
• higher
• developed

Examples of refined in a Sentence

She has become more refined in her painting technique.

He has very refined manners.

refined and elegant works of art

Recent Examples on the Web

The layout includes an ergonomic cockpit, a refined interior with a twin cabin aft, and a teak deck with fold-out platforms and sunpads forward and aft. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 28 Apr. 2026

Ahead, discover nine refined black-tie outfit ideas from this season’s new arrivals to save for all your summer fêtes. —Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 28 Apr. 2026

Distillates are other refined petroleum products, such as diesel and jet fuel. —Steve Kopack, NBC news, 28 Apr. 2026

Dinner is offered both à la carte and as a set tasting menu that spotlights refined Italian cooking and seasonal ingredients. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for refined

• countersigned
• disinclined
• humankind
• interlined
• intertwined
• mastermind
• misaligned
• nonaligned
• predefined
• realigned
• reassigned
• recombined

Kids Definition

refined

adjective

re·​fined

ri-ˈfīnd

1

: socially well-trained : well-bred, cultivated

very refined manners

2

: freed from impurities : pure

refined sugar

3

: carried to a fine point : subtle

refined measurements