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

In fact, in a small 2023 study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, adults with spinal cord injury who completed 12 weeks of upper-body ergometer rowing saw improvements in their cardio fitness. —Christa Sgobba, SELF, 3 Jan. 2025

For example, a company might implement an AI system to improve customer service without setting specific targets for improvement. —Jo Debecker, Forbes, 2 Jan. 2025

According to Salesforce, companies leveraging predictive analytics experience a 20% improvement in close rates. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 1 Jan. 2025

Women made up 12% of all cinematographers working on the 250 top films of 2024, a 5% improvement. —Brent Lang, Variety, 1 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing improvement

• home-improvement
• self-improvement

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