definition of
refinement

[1] #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] #2 refinement n. [elaboration] the result of improving something; "he described a refinement of this technique". wn

[3] #3 refinement n. [refining, purification] the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.). wn

[4] #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] #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