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

But there is still plenty of room for improvement at the nickel position, currently occupied by Chau Smith-Wade, and the rest of the depth chart. —Mike Kaye march 24, Charlotte Observer, 24 Mar. 2026

Czerniak cautioned that while improvements are expected with the new tower, residents should not anticipate a complete fix. —Daniel I. Dorfman, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026

The fee will cover costs of studying the center’s existing conditions and making recommendations for improvements, design and construction documents preparation, and bidding services and construction administration. —Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 23 Mar. 2026

While the stadium itself will be privately financed, the team has said, the city and state could be on the hook for infrastructure improvements nearby. —Elliott Wenzler, Denver Post, 23 Mar. 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