refinements
|re-fin-ment|
/rɪˈfaɪnmənts/
(refinement)
making purer or more polished
Etymology
'refinement' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'refinement', ultimately from Old French 'refinement', where the prefix 're-' meant 'again' and the element related to 'fin' (from Latin 'finire') conveyed ideas of ending or making complete (later extended to purification or finishing).
'refinement' changed from Old French 'refinement' and entered Middle English with similar form and meaning, and it eventually became the modern English word 'refinement' with broadened senses.
Initially, it meant 'the act of removing impurities or making something more complete/finished'; over time it evolved to include 'small improvements or adjustments' and 'elegance or polish' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
small improvements or adjustments made to a design, plan, or system to make it better or more effective.
The engineers made several refinements to the prototype before testing.
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Noun 2
the process or result of removing impurities; purification (especially of metals, oils, or raw materials).
The refinements increased the metal's purity to an acceptable level.
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Noun 3
subtle improvements or cultivated tastes that show elegance, sophistication, or polish.
Her writing shows many refinements that reflect years of practice.
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Last updated: 2025/09/04 06:11