self-improvement

noun

self-im·​prove·​ment ˌself-im-ˈprüv-mənt 

plural self-improvements

: the act or process of improving oneself by one's own actions

individuals interested in self-improvement

opportunities for self-improvement

also : an instance or result of such improvement

You don't need to wait to ring in the new year to start making self-improvements, because it's always a good time.

—Nicole Yi

—often used before another noun

self-improvement efforts

a self-improvement blog

Examples of self-improvement in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Rudolf’s death surely exacerbated Elisabeth’s desire to extricate herself from the public and physical world—a longing that was also reflected in her obsession with self-improvement and self-edification. —Elizabeth Djinis, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Apr. 2025

Newsom stated that Castillo has committed himself to self-improvement while in prison and appears to be a good prospect for reentry into the community. —Taryn Luna, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2025

What This Means For You April Theory is the idea that April is a better month than January for goal-setting and self-improvement. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 18 Apr. 2025

Encouraging open communication, dedicating time for self-improvement, embracing collaborative tools and fostering a culture that views failure as a stepping stone to success are pivotal steps in helping to prevent innovation fatigue. —Igor Fedulov, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-improvement

• improvement
• movement

Kids Definition

self-improvement

noun

self-im·​prove·​ment

ˌsel-ˌfim-ˈprüv-mənt

: improvement of oneself by one's own actions