Definition

To become better or more pure by removing unwanted elements or improving quality.

Example

As the process continued, the metal began to refine and shine more brightly.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I've been trying to refine my cooking skills recently.

That's awesome! What have you been learning to make?

I've been focusing on sauces, trying to get them just right and refine the flavors.

Sounds delicious! A good sauce really makes a dish stand out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make something better by improving it or removing unwanted parts; to purify or make more elegant.

Example

The artist decided to refine her painting by adding more details and adjusting the colors.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I've been trying to refine my cooking skills lately.

That's awesome! What have you been practicing?

I've focused on making sauces to refine the flavors in my dishes.

Root Explanation

Refine → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "finire" (meaning to end or limit). The word "refine" means to end or limit something again, implying the process of making something better or purer by removing impurities or unwanted elements.

Memory Tip

Think of the process of making something better by 'ending' or 'limiting' impurities again — 're-' means again, and 'finire' means to end.

Visually Confused Words