as in improves
to make better
worked on refining her backhand before the big tennis match
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of refines
Its network refines 800,000 barrels a day at sites in Louisiana, Texas, and Illinois.
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Jordan Blum, Fortune, 9 Jan. 2026
The denim industry has found an appreciation for linen and how the fiber enhances and refines what is traditionally considered to be a tough and rugged fabric.
—Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 7 Jan. 2026
The new 2026 version refines those traits but adds a number of performance-enhancing design features.
—Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 5 Jan. 2026
The original was a brilliant but messy project, but the sequel refines those ideas and brings them into focus.
—Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 29 Dec. 2025
As healing continues, subtle changes are common as the nasal contour gradually refines into a permanent result.
—Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Nov. 2025
Mario Badescu’s no-frills formula refines pores and soothes skin post-cleansing with witch hazel and rose water.
—Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 18 Nov. 2025
But the company regularly tweaks and refines the formula, introducing new lines, being careful not to stray far from the defining characteristics of the instruments that are beloved of generations of musicians, but offering new angles on a classic product.
—New Atlas, 15 Nov. 2025
Crafted from plush cowhide suede, the mule refines the newest Vamp silhouette, which flows in a continuous curve around the foot.
—Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for refines
Verb
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Ending the government shutdown would ease the situation for controllers, but the FAA said the flight cuts will remain in place until their safety data improves.—
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Nix will only be on a rookie contract for so long, and the Broncos’ cap situation improves significantly in 2026.—
Verb
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Her go-to is the Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit, a $35 at-home hair color box that conceals 100 percent of stubborn grays and enhances shine.—
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The denim industry has found an appreciation for linen and how the fiber enhances and refines what is traditionally considered to be a tough and rugged fabric.—
Cite this Entry
“Refines.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/refines. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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