Definition

Having been made pure or free from unwanted substances; also describes someone who is polite and cultured.

Example

She has a refined taste in art and music.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you tried the new restaurant downtown?

Yeah, I went last weekend, and the food was really refined.

I heard their desserts are especially good.

They are! Everything felt so refined and delicious.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Refined → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "finire" (meaning to end or limit). The word "refined" means to have been made pure or improved again, often through a process of removing impurities or unwanted elements.

Memory Tip

Think of something being made pure or improved 'again' ('re-') by 'ending' or limiting unwanted parts ('finire'). This helps you remember that 'refined' means something that has been improved or purified.

Visually Confused Words