self-improvement

noun

self-im·​prove·​ment ˌself-im-ˈprüv-mənt How to pronounce self-improvement (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Allie Volpe is a senior reporter at Vox covering mental health, relationships, wellness, money, home life, and work through the lens of meaningful self-improvement. Allie Volpe, Vox, 7 May 2025 Read the full Taurus Daily Horoscope Gemini (May 21 - June 21) Seeking self-improvement? Usa Today, USA Today, 5 May 2025 With hyper-masculine influencers on their social media feeds promoting self-improvement through extreme workout and diet regimens, the idea of sitting in a circle and talking about feelings might sound less appealing. Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 4 May 2025 Often, this anxiety stems from the illusion of absolute control, an unattainable pursuit, rather than a constructive focus on self-improvement, emotional regulation and skill refinement. Davide Sartini, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-improvement

Word History

First Known Use

1654, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-improvement was in 1654

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Cite this Entry

“Self-improvement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-improvement. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-improvement

noun
self-im·​prove·​ment
ˌsel-ˌfim-ˈprüv-mənt
: improvement of oneself by one's own actions
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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