1.a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality;
they performed with great polish
2.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
5.the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste;
a man of intellectual refinement