refinement refinement /rəˈfaɪnmənt/

noun

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