improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt 

1

: the act or process of improving

2

a

: the state of being improved

especially : enhanced value or excellence

b

: an instance of such improvement : something that enhances value or excellence

Synonyms

• advance
• advancement
• breakthrough
• enhancement
• refinement

Examples of improvement in a Sentence

Doctors were amazed by the sudden improvement in her medical condition.

I've noticed a significant improvement in your work since the spring.

The editor made some improvements to the article before it was printed.

They spent the money on new kitchen cabinets and other home improvements.

Recent Examples on the Web

Guerrero thinks true equity for Fort Worth’s population with disabilities requires floor-to-ceiling improvements in every aspect of transit: more and better sidewalks, more frequent and accessible buses, and so on. —Jaime Moore-Carrillo, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 June 2024

Expansion of Seminole’s East Branch library in Oviedo and improvements to the county’s other four branch libraries. —Martin E. Comas, Orlando Sentinel, 17 June 2024

But these improvements also make the greatest flaw more glaring. —Shirley Li, The Atlantic, 16 June 2024

Even though many external variables might be blamed for financial stress, there are strategies to lessen it and make improvements. —Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 15 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing improvement

• home-improvement
• self-improvement

Kids Definition

improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt 

1

: the act or process of improving

2

a

: increased value or excellence

b

: something that adds to the value or appearance (as of a house)

Legal Definition

improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment

: a usually permanent addition to or modification of real property that enhances its capital value and is distinguished from an ordinary repair in being designed to make the property more useful or valuable