rə̇ˈfīnmənt, rēˈf- noun
( -s )
1. : the action or process of refining
refinement of metals
refinement of torture
refinement of measuring techniques
2. : the quality or state of being refined : cultivation , elegance , polish
always comparing immigrant vitality with native refinement — M.D.Geismar
sniffed with exquisite refinement — Elinor Wylie
3.
a. : something that is the product or outcome of a refining process or that conduces to refining : a refined feature or method
pursued the delicate art of suggestion to its furthest refinements — Maurice Bowra
b. : subtlety in reasoning
refinements of logic
refinement is what characterizes our intellectualist philosophies — William James
c. : a contrivance, device, or feature intended to improve or perfect
introduce refinements into a machine
this refinement will increase the cost of the automobile
d. : a slight departure from mechanical exactness or uniformity of line intended to enhance the beauty of a building or overcome undesirable optical effects