v. im·proved, im·prov·ing, im·proves v.tr. 1. To raise to a more desirable or more excellent quality or condition; make better: Exercise can improve your health. 2. To increase the productivity or value of (land or property): improved the house by adding a bathroom. v.intr. 1. To become better: Economic conditions are improving. 2. To make beneficial additions or changes: You can improve on the translation of that text. [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).] im·prova·ble adj. im·prova·bly adv. |
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