improvement

[im-proov-muhnt]

noun

1. an act of improving or the state of being improved.

2. a change or addition by which a thing is improved.

3. a person or thing that represents an advance on another in excellence or achievement.

   The new landlord is a great improvement over his greedy predecessor.

   Synonyms: advancement, betterment, refinement

4. a bringing into a more valuable or desirable condition, as of land or real property; betterment.

   Synonyms: repair, enhancement

5. something done or added to real property that increases its value.

6. profitable use, as of a period of time.

improvement

/ ɪmˈpruːvmənt /

noun

1. the act of improving or the state of being improved

2. something that improves, esp an addition or alteration

3. alteration of the structure, fixtures, fittings, or decor of a building without changing its function Compare conversion

4. (usually plural) a building or other works on a piece of land, adding to its value

Other Word Forms

• nonimprovement noun
• preimprovement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of improvement¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English improuement, from Anglo-French emprouement “something profitable (especially exploitation of land)”; improve, -ment

Example Sentences

When the reconstruction project is complete the sign will be relocated to ensure “compatibility with the new road designs and integrated into the broader improvements planned for the area,” according to airport officials.

From Los Angeles Times

The route was one of 39 inspected as part of a "safe route assessment survey", which found that 29 were deemed safe and that nine could be made safe if improvements were made.

From BBC

The OfS ranks universities into four categories - gold, silver, bronze and "requires improvement".

From BBC

The improvement has been too slow in the view of some observers, although many other schools systems have yet to catch up pre-pandemic achievement.

From Los Angeles Times

The world has become a much smaller place because of digital communications and the improvement in communication.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• advance 
• advancement 
• change 
• development 
• enhancement 
• gain 
• growth 
• increase 
• progress 
• recovery 
• renovation 
• revision 
• rise 
• upgrade