refinement
UK: rɪˈfaɪnmənt | US: rɪˈfaɪnmənt
n. the process of removing impurities or unwanted elements from a substance
n. the improvement or clarification of something by making small changes
n. elegance, sophistication, or cultured behavior
The word refinement emerged in the 17th century, combining refine (itself rooted in metallurgy and alchemy) with the suffix -ment. Originally tied to physical purification (e.g., refining sugar or metals), it later expanded metaphorically to describe intellectual, artistic, or behavioral polish. The Latin finis (boundary) hints at the idea of removing excess to reach an ideal state.
The refinement of crude oil produces gasoline and other fuels.
Her essay underwent several rounds of refinement before publication.
His manners displayed a rare refinement for someone so young.
The artist’s later works show greater refinement in technique.
Technological refinement has made smartphones faster and more efficient.