make more complex, intricate, or richer; "refine a design or pattern";
make more precise or increase the discriminatory powers of; "refine a method of analysis"; "refine the constant in the equation";
attenuate or reduce in vigor, strength, or validity by polishing or purifying; "many valuable nutrients are refined out of the foods in our modern diet";
improve or perfect by pruning or polishing; "refine one''s style of writing";
reduce to a fine, unmixed, or pure state; separate from extraneous matter or cleanse from impurities; "refine sugar";
treat or prepare so as to put in a usable condition; "refine paper stock"; "refine pig iron"; "refine oil";
