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

Example sentences from the Web for refine

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, adjective

Word Origin for refine

C16: from re- + fine 1

Medical definitions for refine

refine
[ rĭ-fīn ]

v.

To reduce to a pure state; purify.