refine
[ ri-fahyn ]
/ rɪˈfaɪn /
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Definition of refine
verb (used with object), re·fined, re·fin·ing.
verb (used without object), re·fined, re·fin·ing.
Verb Phrases
refine on / upon to improve by inserting finer distinctions, superior elements, etc.: to refine on one's previous work.
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OTHER WORDS FROM refine
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2022
How to use refine in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for refine
refine
/ (rɪˈfaɪn) /
verb
to make or become free from impurities, sediment, or other foreign matter; purify
(tr) to separate (a mixture) into pure constituents, as in an oil refinery
to make or become free from coarse characteristics; make or become elegant or polished
(tr often foll by out) to remove (something impure or extraneous)
(intr ; often foll by on or upon) to enlarge or improve (upon) by making subtle or fine distinctions
(tr) to make (language) more subtle or polished
Derived forms of refine
refinable, adjectiveWord Origin for refine
C16: from re- + fine 1
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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Medical definitions for refine
refine
[ rĭ-fīn′ ]
v.
To reduce to a pure state; purify.
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary
Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.