improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt 

1

: the act or process of improving

2

a

: the state of being improved

especially : enhanced value or excellence

b

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

Synonyms

• advance
• advancement
• breakthrough
• enhancement
• refinement

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

Some of these teams will succeed in navigating this seller’s market and making significant improvements, likely at considerable cost. —Arpon Basu, New York Times, 21 June 2025

Spending at building material and garden supply stores also saw big drops, suggesting less residential investment in home improvements. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 21 June 2025

Resident feedback will help the city decide where sidewalks are needed, where they may not be wanted and where improvements are necessary, according to a press release from St. Charles. —Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2025

The Senate has kept many of the positive aspects of the House bill and taken us up on some of our suggestions for improvement while ignoring others. —The Editors, National Review, 20 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1550, 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