a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality; they performed with great polish; I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose; almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art--Joseph Conrad

[ Syn: polish , culture , cultivation , finish ]

the result of improving something; he described a refinement of this technique

[ Syn: elaboration ]

the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.)

[ Syn: refining , purification ]

a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude; without understanding the finer nuances you cant enjoy the humor; dont argue about shades of meaning

[ Syn: nuance , nicety , shade , subtlety ]

the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste; a man of intellectual refinement; he is remembered for his generosity and civilization

[ Syn: civilization , civilisation ]