betterment

noun

bet·​ter·​ment ˈbe-tər-mənt 

1

: a making or becoming better

2

: an improvement that adds to the value of a property or facility

Examples of betterment in a Sentence

working for the betterment of the lives of working people

Recent Examples on the Web

To earn the Gold Medal, participants must complete at least 400 hours of voluntary public service, which means sharing their time and talent for the betterment of the community. —Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 12 Jan. 2026

This would involve defining a vision that brings Minnesota together and fully committed to betterment. —Arne Carlson, Twin Cities, 8 Jan. 2026

The new year is a time for reassessing personal behavior, the conduct of others, and our concern for the environment—and once again rededicating ourselves to personal betterment and the advancement of society. —Michael Isaacson, Sun Sentinel, 6 Jan. 2026

Strong and determined, Michele and Rob Reiner devoted a great deal of their lives for the betterment of our fellow citizen. —Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 19 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

better entry 2 + -ment

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing betterment

• self-betterment

Kids Definition

betterment

noun

bet·​ter·​ment ˈbet-ər-mənt 

: improvement sense 1