Noun
1. 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 Conrad2. the result of improving something;
"he described a refinement of this technique"3. the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.)
4. a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude;
"without understanding the finer nuances you can't enjoy the humor""don't argue about shades of meaning"5. the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste;
"a man of intellectual refinement""he is remembered for his generosity and civilization"