Definition

A facility where raw materials, like oil or sugar, are processed and purified to create usable products.

Example

The refinery produces gasoline and other petroleum products from crude oil.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a refinery up close?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they look really impressive.

Yeah, it's fascinating how they process oil and other materials in a refinery.

I bet! It must be interesting to learn about all the technology involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Refinery → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "finire" (from Latin, meaning to finish or limit). The word "refinery" refers to a place where substances are processed to be finished or purified again.

Memory Tip

Think of a place where things are 'finished again' — 're-' means again, and 'finire' means to finish.

Visually Confused Words