improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt How to pronounce improvement (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That’s a slight improvement on the season two opener, which came in just under 2 million. Rick Porter, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Feb. 2025 What wins is improvement in the rate of improvement itself. Philip Maymin, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025 Brennan needs to display some massive improvement next season or things will get dicey. Antonio Morales, The Athletic, 21 Feb. 2025 The only regions with possible small improvements in drought conditions are along the Great Lakes and the interior New England area. Nikki Nolan, CBS News, 21 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for improvement

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of improvement was circa 1550

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Cite this Entry

“Improvement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improvement. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

improvement

noun
im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt How to pronounce improvement (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on improvement

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