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

Her contracts covered coaching and mentoring for CMS human resources personnel and recommendations for HR improvements. — Josh Bergeron, Charlotte Observer, 23 July 2026

So, after the first 48-team World Cup, one featuring hydration breaks at all matches, suspended bans, a half-time show in the final and countless other controversies, what are your suggestions for improvement? — The Athletic Uk Staff, New York Times, 22 July 2026

In addition to the new tenants, Younger Partners has been making improvements to the district’s landscaping and the illuminated ring at the intersection of Crockett Street and Currie Street. — Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 July 2026

The updates to iconic styles are driving improvements more so than Knu Skool and the Super Lopro, which are really new styles paying homage to old ideas, rather than being updates to old styles. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 22 July 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