refine

[ ri-fahyn ]
/ rɪˈfaɪn /

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.

Origin of refine

First recorded in 1575–85; re- + fine1

OTHER WORDS FROM refine

Words nearby refine

referred sensation, reffo, refill, refinance, refinancing, refine, refined, refinement, refiner, refinery, refinish

British Dictionary definitions for refinable

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, adjective

Word Origin for refine

C16: from re- + fine 1

Medical definitions for refinable

refine
[ rĭ-fīn′ ]

v.

To reduce to a pure state; purify.