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

Assael Marrero, assistant city manager, agreed that the system needs improvement. —Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 19 Dec. 2025

In Nike’s fiscal first-quarter earnings report, Hill reported some positive developments in the company’s turnaround, citing improvements in wholesale, running and North America. —Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 18 Dec. 2025

But some of Sumrall’s decisions surely won’t pan out, and Florida’s improvement will hinge on making adjustments. —Noah White, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 2025

Orchids may be a common offering at home improvement stores or your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, but these tropical plants are a long way from their rainforest homes. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 18 Dec. 2025

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