im·prove
(ĭm-prōōv́)
[Middle English improwen, to enclose land for cultivation, from Anglo-Norman emprouwer, to turn to profit, Old French en-, causative pref. (from Latin in-; see in–2), + Old French prou, profit (from Late Latin prōde, advantageous; see proud).]
verb: -proved, -prov·ing, -proves.
transitive verb
- To raise to a more desirable or more excellent quality or condition; make better.
- To increase the productivity or value of (land or property).
- To put to good use; use profitably.
intransitive verb
- To become better.
- To make beneficial additions or changes: improve on the translation.
derivatives
- im·prov́a·ble
- adjective
- im·prov́a·bly
- adverb
synonyms:
improve, better1help, ameliorate These verbs mean to advance to a more desirable, valuable, or excellent state. Improve and better, the most general terms, are often interchangeable: You can improvebetteryour mind through study; I got a haircut to improvebettermy appearance. Help usually implies limited relief or change: Gargling helps a sore throat. To ameliorate is to improve circumstances that demand change: Volunteers were able to ameliorate conditions in the refugee camp.
