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.
The tentative proposal for new financing would have Southern Bancorp and the Enterprise Community Loan Fund extend up to $6 million so the housing authority can resolve the foreclosure lawsuit and make improvements to units. Arkansas Online, 26 Sep. 2025 The team’s improvements spanned software optimizations, experimental techniques, and advanced engineering, enabling bit-flip times far beyond previous levels. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2025 The commission’s recommendation came with the caveat, however, that the associated development agreement is modified to require completion of transit improvements — namely a reconfiguration of Sports Arena Boulevard to include dedicated bus lanes — during the first phase of development. Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Sep. 2025 For instance, one study found that people who took apple cider vinegar daily saw improvements in fasting blood sugar, A1C, cholesterol levels, and even small drops in weight and waist size. Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 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 27 Sep. 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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