First Known Use: circa 1529
Dictionary
improve
verb im·prove \im-ˈprüv\
: to make (something) better
: to become better
im·provedim·prov·ing
Full Definition of IMPROVE
transitive verb
2
a : to enhance in value or quality : make better b : to increase the value of (land or property) by making it more useful for humans (as by cultivation or the erection of buildings) c : to grade and drain (a road) and apply surfacing material other than pavement
3
: to use to good purpose
intransitive verb
1
: to advance or make progress in what is desirable
2
: to make useful additions or amendments
— im·prov·abil·i·ty \(ˌ)im-ˌprü-və-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
— im·prov·able \-ˈprü-və-bəl\ adjective
— im·prov·er noun
See improve defined for English-language learners
See improve defined for kids
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Origin of IMPROVE
Middle English improuen, emprouen, from Anglo-French emprouer to make profit from, from French en- + pru, prou advantage, from Late Latin prode — more at proud
Related to IMPROVE
Synonym Discussion of IMPROVE
improve, better, help, ameliorate mean to make more acceptable or to bring nearer a standard. improve and better are general and interchangeable and apply to what can be made better whether it is good or bad <measures to further improve the quality of medical care> <immigrants hoping to better their lot>. help implies a bettering that still leaves room for improvement <a coat of paint would help that house>. ameliorate implies making more tolerable or acceptable conditions that are hard to endure <tried to ameliorate the lives of people in the tenements>.
IMPROVING Defined for Kids
improve
verb im·prove \im-ˈprüv\
im·provedim·prov·ing
Definition of IMPROVE for Kids
: to make or become better <Her writing has greatly improved.>
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