Refiner: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about improving or purifying substances, especially metals and chemicals, to remove impurities.

• The refiner worked tirelessly to ensure the gold was free of any impurities
• The oil refiner processes crude oil into gasoline and other products

Typically used to describe devices or substances that remove contaminants or impurities from air, water, or other environments.

• They installed a water purifier to ensure they had clean drinking water
• The air purifier helped reduce allergens in their home

Commonly used for substances or tools used to remove dirt or stains from surfaces. It can also refer to a person whose job is to clean.

• He used a window cleaner to make the glass sparkle
• The office cleaner comes in every evening to tidy up the workspace

Often used in a medical or psychological context, referring to the process of removing unwanted or harmful substances from the body or mind. It can have a slightly negative or intense connotation.

• The doctor prescribed a purger to cleanse her system of toxins
• He felt emotionally lighter after a session with the therapist, as if he had purged himself of years of worry

used to describe someone who improves or makes something more polished, often in a technical or artistic sense

• As a refiner of precious metals, he turned raw gold into beautiful jewelry
• Her role as a refiner of the script elevated the play to new heights

describes someone who is well-educated, knowledgeable about the arts, and has good manners

• She is a cultured person who enjoys attending art galleries and classical music concerts
• His extensive travels and love for literature make him a truly cultured person

refers to someone who is graceful, stylish, and sophisticated in appearance or manner

• At the gala, everyone noticed the elegant individual in the stunning black gown
• His refined manners and elegant demeanor made a strong impression at the event

used for someone who has a lot of worldly experience, is well-traveled, and aware of social graces, sometimes carrying a slightly pretentious or negative connotation

• As a true sophisticate, she could appreciate both the finest wines and the latest fashion trends
• His attitude as a sophisticate occasionally made others feel uncomfortable