#1
refinement n. [
polish, culture, cultivation, finish] a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality; "they performed with great polish"; "I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose"; "almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art"--Joseph
. wn #2
refinement n. [
elaboration] the result of improving something; "he described a refinement of this technique"
. wn #3
refinement n. [
refining, purification] the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.)
. wn #4
refinement n. [
nuance, nicety, shade, subtlety] a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude; "without understanding the finer nuances you can't enjoy the humor"; "don't argue about shades of meaning"
. wn #5
refinement n. [
civilization, civilisation] the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste; "a man of intellectual refinement"; "he is remembered for his generosity and civilization"
. wn