improvement

noun

im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt How to pronounce improvement (audio)
Synonyms of improvementnext
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

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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
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.
Feedback will help guide future improvements for people who walk, bike, use transit and drive through the corridor. — Tyler Quattrin, Twin Cities, 8 July 2026 Lainez said the city would have had to make cuts to senior programs, public safety services and capital improvement projects. — Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026 The school said in a news release the $19 million increase reflected 12% year-over-year improvement. — Fisher Isbell, AJC.com, 8 July 2026 Rios is inspirational, in her efforts to set up programs that showcase American pride and passion for improvement. — John Werner, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for improvement

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of improvement was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing improvement

Rhymes for improvement

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Browse Nearby Words

improved wood
improvement
improvement factor
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Cite this Entry

“Improvement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/improvement. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

improvement

noun
im·​prove·​ment im-ˈprüv-mənt How to pronounce improvement (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on improvement

Nglish: Translation of improvement for Spanish Speakers

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