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Added 8 October 2026

improve

/ɪmˈpɹuːv/ verb

Latin root: prode Wiktionary

verb Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about improve at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

To make (something) better; to increase the value or productivity (of something).
Painting the woodwork will improve this house.
To become better.
I have improved since taking the tablets.
To use or employ to good purpose; to turn to profitable account.
to improve one's time; to improve his means

verb

To disprove or make void; to refute.
To disapprove of; to find fault with; to reprove; to censure.

Origin

From Anglo-Norman emprouwer, from Old French en- + prou (“profit”), from Vulgar Latin prode (“advantageous, profitable”).

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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