refine

//rɪˈfaɪn//
B2Frequency Level 10Neutral
Visual representation of refine

Verb

refineInfinitive
refinePresent tense
refinedPast tense
refinedPast participle
refiningPresent participle
refinesThird-person singular
1

To remove impurities or unwanted elements from a substance, especially in industrial processes.

The factory refines crude oil into gasoline.

2

To improve something by making small changes or adjustments to make it more precise, effective, or elegant.

She spent weeks refining her presentation to make it more persuasive.

3

To make manners, taste, or behavior more cultured or sophisticated.

Living abroad helped refine her taste in art.