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

Some of those improvements included the installation of Lutron LED lights throughout the resort, the addition of storm windows on all guest room windows and low flow toilets. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

The models have become much more capable; the pace of improvement from model to model is faster; and the stakes are much higher. — Alyson Shontell, Fortune, 5 Oct. 2026

Malik said the report shows clear environmental improvements, but also ongoing challenges in different regions. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

Immigrant rights groups filed a federal class-action lawsuit against DHS this year alleging poor drinking water, food, sanitation and medical care at the Adelanto ICE Processing Center, and a federal judge ordered improvements. — Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 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