improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt 

1

: the act or process of improving

improvement in the patient's condition

2

a

: the state of being improved

especially : enhanced value or excellence

I've noticed improvement in your work.

b

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

The editor made some improvements to the article.

Synonyms of improvement

• advance
• advancement
• enhancement
• breakthrough
• development

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

Caltrans says crews are clearing out 27 acres for a safety improvement project, but not all the neighbors are on board. —Kayla Moeller, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026

One of the biggest needs for Boise State football in 2026 is improvement on special teams. —Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 7 Apr. 2026

Queta also has drawn praise for his improvement as a defender and screener. —Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 6 Apr. 2026

In his annual letter to JPMorgan shareholders, released this morning, Dimon reiterated that these improvements are well underway—even if his more optimistic claims are still decades from fruition. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 6 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing improvement

• home-improvement
• self-improvement

Rhymes for improvement

• movement

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